Guidelines for Line Editors
Line editing, also called stylistic editing, focuses on logic, clarity, organization, purpose, style, and tone. A line editor does edit line by line, while also considering the writer’s overall message and improving the text so as to best relay its intent. Here are some questions to consider in these areas:
Logic: Can the argument be followed? Are the explanations sufficient? Is the discussion missing elements? Does the manuscript contain vague generalizations? Are the transitions smooth? Are terms well defined?
Clarity: Is everything laid out in the clearest manner? Are there unclear statements and ways of eliminating their ambiguity? Should some text be rewritten on the paragraph or sentence levels?
Organization: Will readers be able to follow the subject in the way that information is presented? Are transitions used effectively?
Purpose: Is the author’s purpose evident? Is it the focus of all discussion? Does there seem to be inaccuracy in the use of facts and quotations? Is there anything that might embarrass the author or the Press? Are some materials overly dated?
Style: Is the text consistent in style? Can it be tightened to read more concisely with less wordiness or redundancy? Are there awkward constructions that could be adjusted to read more smoothly? Should less of the passive voice be used?
Tone: Is the tone appropriate for the intended audience? Is the voice consistent? Should there be improvements in word choice? Is any of the language discriminatory regarding race, ethnicity, gender, marital status, age, or economic status? Is the text gender-inclusive, using both male and female pronouns?
Queries may be submitted for matters that need further attention by the author. Be sure that any notes for the author are carefully worded so as to be sensitive, not in danger of sounding condemning of the author’s beliefs, interpretation, scholarship, or use of English. But, at the same time, note material that seems to be prejudiced, slanderous, or contrary to the doctrines of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Though line editing addresses many areas and focuses on ways to improve written text, it should not alter the author’s overall intent or message. If you believe that the content requires heavy editing, confer with the in-house editor before proceeding with serious rewriting and reconsideration of purpose.