Educating Your Author About Content Warnings
While some authors may think that including warnings in their books will deter potential readers, it can actually have quite the opposite effect.
The Dos and Don’ts of Proofreading
The book is nearly complete and just needs a final check to ensure that errors weren’t introduced during the design process and that there are no lingering grammatical errors.
Using Inclusive Language for Asexuality
In order to make style guides more inclusive and guarantee that editors are catching moments that could interrupt a reader’s experience, editors can read guides that discuss how to treat language surrounding underrepresented identities so they can catch when these identities are not being treated accurately by authors.
Tips for Efficient and Effective Copyediting
Editing well is a balance between following usage and grammar conventions and applying them thoughtfully. A successful editor hones writing for clarity and cohesion while letting the author’s voice come through. Whether editing your own writing or someone else’s, the following tips can help you streamline and improve your work
Three CHICAGO MANUAL OF STYLE Rules … and Their Exceptions
Anyone who has used Chicago Manual of Style, or any style guide for that matter, will know that sometimes the rules seem arbitrary or contradictory and full of exceptions. Here are three often confused rules and their many exceptions.
News Versus Novels: Editing in Practice
news editors that are conducting developmental editing, such as the editor-in-chief or section editor, are ultimately in control of the vision for the writing. They function as gatekeepers for the content, tone, and even the piece itself—cutting an article from a newspaper entirely is always on the table. For book editors, the author is still the driving force behind the work’s purpose and voice, as they aren’t always held to the uniform standard of a cohesive newspaper.
How Point of View Can Help Your Story Shine
One of the most important elements to consider when beginning a new writing project is point of view (POV). Every story, article, research journal, play, etc. uses POV, and many people, whether they think about it or not, have a preference when it comes to what they like to read and/or write. Depending on the project you’re working on, there are many ways you can use POV to your advantage.
Are Singular “They/Them” Pronouns Grammatically Correct?
Language is created by humans, and therefore, humans have the power to change language as they wish.
How to Edit Women in Romance Novels
How many times have you read a romance novel and wondered why the protagonist must be saved? Editing women in romance novels requires a lot of attention to detail to avoid cliches and overused plots. A developmental editor must be prepared to answer questions that authors may have about their suggestions. Editors should avoid stereotypes and approach romance manuscripts and female protagonists with empathy and understanding.
How to Know When to Stop Editing
Every writer has heard the golden rule of writing a manuscript: write first, edit later. But when the first, second, and third drafts are done, when does the editing process actually conclude?