What is a copy editor?

[Carol]

For those unsure about what a copy editor, like me does, I offer insight: a copy editor is more focused at the technical level. Unlike a line editor, who focuses on the way you use language to get your point across, or a developmental editor, who does character and story development, plot structure and the like, a copy editor requires rule -based understanding of American English usage. They correct spelling, grammar and punctuation, they ensure consistency, check for over-use of words, redundancies, run-on sentences, and flag ambiguous or factually incorrect statements. They will tell you if your story makes sense and if it tracks. They also may, and I do, suggest words or phrases that tighten or clarify your meaning. Check out my Facebook page at Editing by Carol Tietsworth, or contact me at legal2b@yahoo.com.