Copyediting
Definition
Copyediting, which also can be referred to as “copy editing” or “copy-editing”, is the process in which there are minor corrections to a written piece typically done by an editor. These minor corrections involve grammar, punctuation, spelling, style or writing, and consistency of writing corrections. Copyediting can be involved within many projects involving writing from educational essays, screen writes, novels, textbooks, and more. Copyediting is typically the last step of the editing process, unlike line editing or developmental editing which are more major effects to the bigger picture of the writing either in development of plot, logistics, and rearrangement of text, copyediting focuses on the minor details. [1]
History and Evolution
Copyediting can be dated back around 3200 B.C., when scribes would copy and maintain accuracy of text onto scrolls or clay tablets. This was not necessarily how “copyediting” is described today, but the process did involve the copying of text from its original source to preserve and interpret teachings and law. During the 1450s there was a mass rise in the need for editors as the invention of the printing press make writing more available and mass-produced. “Professional editors” made their rise between the 18th and 19th century with the birth of the publishing industry, making it easier for writers to get their work reviewed and filtered connections from editor to publisher. Today, with the boost of the digital world, copyediting has become a cemented role as a bridge for authors and publishers. Copyediting has also become easier with the help of digitized tools and systems in the process of editing. [2]
Impact on Publishing
The use of copyediting increases an author’s chances of getting published, whether it be the connection between an editor to a company or the ease of an already edited document on publishers. Making the job of the author easier but also the publishers. If a publishing house has certain style guidelines, copy editors are able to use these guidelines as a way to edit authors texts more appealing to publishers as well.[1]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 What is Copy Editing - Definition and Examples. (2022, August 20). GRAMMARIST. https://grammarist.com/editing/what-is-copy-editing-definition-examples/.
- ↑ The Unfolding Story: Evolution of Book Editing Through History - Editmojo.com. (2023, May 17). Editmojo.com. https://editmojo.com/evolution-of-book-editing-through-history/.
