What is a Copy Cleanup?
A Copy Cleanup is an edit focusing on conventions - tightening grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, word choice, and other mechanical issues (sometimes called copy editing).
It includes:
It includes:
- 2 passes or rounds of edits
- inline edits (with some explanation)
- Plus: a simple style sheet detailing word and style choices, lists of characters, and world elements in an expandable format
Who might benefit from a Copy Cleanup?
- an experienced author with a story that is developmentally solid
- an author who's already hired me to do an Alpha or Beta service on their manuscript (i.e. I'm already familiar with their style and the world they've built)
What does it look like?
In the first pass or round of edits, I focus on conventions and mechanical issues. The author makes corrections and adjustments as they see fit and sends it back for a second pass.
During the second pass, I create a basic style sheet and read through the whole story again to catch mechanical issues that may have been missed or introduced (not a proofread).
During the second pass, I create a basic style sheet and read through the whole story again to catch mechanical issues that may have been missed or introduced (not a proofread).
Mechanical Edit - ensuring correctness of basic conventions such as:
- grammar
- spelling
- punctuation
- sentence structure
- syntax
- vocabulary
- symmetry
- other mechanics of style
If your story needs substantive as well as mechanical edits, check out my Packaged Services and save.
Contact me today to discuss your project and how I can help.
“Kate is thorough and clearly explains the reasons behind her proposed changes. As a non-native English speaker, I love that she takes the time to teach me the subtleties that sometimes elude me in grammar, syntax, vocabulary, and even idioms. She handles your book, and your voice as an author, with the utmost respect.”
-Author Regine Abel, USA Today Bestselling Author
