"I just need someone to check it over." It is one of the most common things authors tell us, and it can mean very different things. Some manuscripts need a light proofread. Others need a rethink of the whole structure. Booking the wrong kind of edit wastes money and leaves the real problems untouched, so it is worth understanding the differences.
The four kinds of editing
1. Structural editing
Also called developmental or substantive editing, this is the big-picture edit. A structural editor looks at whether the book works as a whole: the plot and pacing, the order of chapters, character development, point of view, and whether the beginning hooks and the ending satisfies. For non-fiction, it looks at the argument, the structure and whether the book delivers on its promise to readers.
You usually receive a detailed report plus comments on the manuscript. You then revise the book yourself, guided by those notes.
2. Line editing
A line edit works at the level of sentences and paragraphs. It improves flow, rhythm, clarity and word choice, cuts repetition, sharpens dialogue and makes sure the tone is consistent. A good line edit makes your writing sound more like you at your best.
3. Copyediting
Copyediting is about correctness and consistency: grammar, spelling, punctuation, capitalisation, and facts such as names, dates and timelines. It also applies a consistent style, for example Australian or US spelling throughout.
4. Proofreading
Proofreading is the final check, usually done on the formatted pages just before printing. It catches the typos, missing words and layout problems that slipped through earlier stages.
Why the order matters
Editing works from the biggest issues to the smallest. There is little point polishing sentences in a chapter that a structural edit might cut, or proofreading pages before the text is final. The usual order is:
- Structural edit
- Line edit
- Copyedit
- Formatting
- Proofread
Line editing and copyediting are sometimes combined, depending on the manuscript.
Which does your manuscript need?
Ask yourself these questions:
- Is this an early draft, or have beta readers said parts drag or confuse them? Start with a structural edit.
- Is the story solid, but the writing feels clunky or flat in places? A line edit is likely the right fit.
- Has the book already been edited, and you want it accurate and consistent? Book a copyedit.
- Is the text final and formatted, ready for print? It is time for a proofread.
Be honest with yourself here. Many first-time authors hope they only need a proofread, but most first manuscripts benefit from at least one deeper edit.
Will an editor change my voice?
A good editor should not. Their job is to help your book become the best version of itself, not to rewrite it in their own style. Professional editors work with tracked changes, so you see every suggestion and decide whether to accept it.
The easiest way to find out
If you are still not sure, let someone read it. Our free manuscript review gives you honest feedback on where your manuscript stands and which kind of edit will make the biggest difference. Learn more about our book editing and proofreading services.