The Role of a Copy Editor

The copy editor serves a critical role in the production of written material.

A world without copy editors would mean scores of misspellings, grammatical errors, factual mistakes and many other embarrassing blunders. The copy editor plays a critical role in many work settings which cannot be overemphasized. When the copy editor has done an excellent job, writing is error-free and content is clear.

Team Effort

Publications adhere to a set editorial process. With magazines, for example, a given number of edits must occur before copy goes to a graphic designer for layout. It is then proofed again before it goes to production, and proofed again when it reaches galley stage. The copy editor's role is in the pre-graphic designer stage, though specific duties depend upon the publication.

Clarifications

The copy editor's role differs from other editors. Substantive editors will heavily rewrite, rearrange and restructure. The copy editor operates more on the micro level, dealing with spelling, grammar and fact-checking. However, in smaller publications, one person may perform both roles.

Words

Operating from a given style guide and other reference works, the copy editor goes line-by-line, alert for spelling, grammar and punctuation errors. She also works to improve clarity, consistency and brevity. She must also fact-check and watch for copyright and libel issues as well as possible plagiarism.

Additional Tasks

The copy editor's role can also include correcting footnotes and references. Writing headlines, subheads and captions are sometimes necessary. The copy editor also checks artwork, tables and captions. Sometimes the copy editor must also make certain notations to ready material for production. For example, she may add certain codes indicating placement of headings and graphics for the graphic designer to later complete the layout and design.

Collaboration

The copy editor works independently but also closely with others on the editorial team to transform material into final format. She must be careful to make necessary corrections without overcorrecting. She wants to ensure both the author's voice and intended meaning are left intact, but not go so far that the text is rendered incorrect.

Locations

Copy editors serve full-time, part-time and free-lance in many venues. These include publishing companies, newspapers, magazines, businesses of all sizes, websites and broadcast media.

References

• "Copyediting: A Practical Guide"; Karen Judd
• "Editing Fact and Fiction: A Concise Guide to Book Editing"; Leslie T. Sharpe
• "The Chicago Manual of Style: The Essential Guide for Writers, Editors, and Publishers"; The University of Chicago Press

Resources

• Copyediting