What It Is: Reviewing copy for grammar, clarity, and consistency, as well as structural issues such as plot holes.
Why You Might Need It: If you’re a strong writer and just want that second set of eyes to give your copy a thorough scan, a line editor may be what you need. With this type of editing, the editor looks at your copy under a virtual microscope, making sure the grammar is correct, ideas are clearly laid out, and thoughts flow smoothly. Rewrites may be suggested and changes made to keep the author’s voice consistent. Although grammar and punctuation are considered, the main purpose of the edit is to ensure that the overall manuscript works.