Copy editing

Do you need a copy editor?

• If you know what you want to say, but it sounds a bit rubbish when you say it, you need a copy editor.

• If you’ve collated writing from multiple editors/colleagues/contributors and need it to sound like it’s written by the same person, you need a copy editor.

• If you’ve rebranded and need your copy and content to reflect your brand voice, you need a copy editor.

• I’m sure there are other scenarios, but these are the first ones that popped into my head. You get the jist.

How I’ll improve your words...

There’s lots going through my mind when I’m wearing my copy editing hat, including:

• Grammar & syntax: Correcting your grammatical errors, ensuring proper sentence structure and punctuation.

• Spelling and vocabulary: Spotting (and correcting) typos, spelling mistakes and misused words.

• Consistency: Using language, tone and style consistently throughout your content.

• Clarity & readability: Simplifying complex sentences so they’re easier to understand – and rewriting anything too wordy.

• Logical flow: Rearranging paragraphs or sentences so everything flows nicely.

• Audience alignment: Tailoring your content to resonate with your target audience, using language, tone and style to suit them.

• Removing jargon and ambiguity: Getting rid of industry jargon or technical terms that might confuse general readers. Clarifying anything ambiguous.

• Enhancing engagement: Suggesting improvements to make your content more engaging and compelling.

• Formatting & presentation: Checking formatting elements like headings, subheadings, bullet points and lists for consistency, so your content is visually appealing and easy to navigate.

• Branding & voice: Maintaining your brand's voice and tone while enhancing the overall quality of your writing. Suggesting adjustments to align the content with your company's brand guidelines where appropriate.

• Compliance with guidelines: Making sure your content matches style guides, legal requirements or industry standards.