What is copy editing?
Q: What is copy editing?
A: Copy editing, or sub-editing, is the work an editor does to improve the style or accuracy of a text. The revised text should be more readable and sometimes more interesting after the editing. Also, punctuation and grammar may need correcting, but without changing the writer's general style. Copy editing might not involve changing the substance of the text, unless supposed facts need correction.
Q: What does 'copy' refer to in this context?
A: In this context, 'copy' refers to written or typewritten text for typesetting, printing, or publication.
Q: When is copy editing usually done?
A: Copy editing is usually done before typesetting and proofreading.
Q: What is proofreading?
A: Proofreading is the last step in the editing process. It involves checking for any errors that may have been missed during earlier stages of production such as typos or incorrect formatting.
Q: What do editors in North America who do this work called?
A: In North America, an editor who does this work is called a copy editor and an organization's highest-ranking copy editor may be known as the copy chief, copy desk chief, or news editor.
Q: How are editors referred to in book publishing outside of North America?
A: In book publishing outside of North America (such as in the United Kingdom), editors are also referred to as 'copy editors'. However in newspaper and magazine publishing they are commonly referred to as 'sub-editors' which can be shortened to 'subs' or 'subbies'.
Q: What responsibilities do UK copy editors typically have compared with regular editors?
A: UK copy editors usually have less authority than regular editors when it comes to making decisions about authors and titles which will make for good sales. Regular Editors on magazines and newspapers have executive responsibility for ensuring business success of their enterprise whereas UK Copy Editors generally don't hold such roles.
