Sunday, 9 June 2013

Why You Have No Option But To Hire Copy Editing Service Professional

By Lucille Lamb


The main work provided by a copy editing service is preparation of pieces of texts that are meant for publication. This they do by checking the manuscript of the author. This manuscript is what is referred to as the copy. Most editors normally work on books. However, they may also edit text for brochures and even articles that are meant to be published in a journal.

A copyeditor basically revises manuscripts written by authors, and checks for various issues ranging from spelling, grammar and punctuation issues. Conformity with house styles is another thing that these editors look for in a copy. To do this job, they have to have good grasp in English language. By working with the author, they will be able to turn a manuscript full of errors into a readable text. The end result is that the original draft is improved, reshaped and trimmed so that it is ready for publishing.

Copyeditors are also tasked with ensuring that there are no legal issues that might arise from the copy. These issues are things such as libel and defamation, copyright breach or partiality. In case extensive revision of a text is required, the copy editor will consult the author about the issue. Most of the time, copyeditors work on-screen although they may also edit hard copy documents.

For in-house copyeditors, working hours are normal as for other types of jobs. This is mainly from 9 to 5. But if there are deadlines that have to be beaten, they may have to work for extra hours. On the other hand, freelance editors mostly work from home, and as such, decide on the time that they want to work. But even if they are the ones who decide on the number of hours to work, they must do it in a way that they deliver before the agreed deadline.

However, it is not possible to capture every mistake in the text. This is because, when they are reading, their minds normally read what they thought they wrote and not necessarily what is in the paper. For someone who did not write the text, he or she will be more efficient since he or she is a stranger to the text. Also, the copyeditor would not possess emotional feeling to the manuscript, so he will approach it with an open mind.

Becoming a copyeditor requires that an individual obtains a degree that is then followed by publishing experience especially at the level of an assistant. Publishing degrees can be pursued at a number of universities and colleges. If you intend to work in specific area, it is important to acquire a relevant degree. If, for instance, you are to work in a scientific publishing firm, you will require a science degree.

The job you can get immediately after completing your degree is an editorial assistant. At the time of starting, it will be easier for you to start working smaller publishers that are less well-known. Take this opportunity as it will help you in getting experience, developing your portfolio and building contacts. After that, you will be able to be considered by the bigger publishers.

To be able to offer professional copy editing service, a person must possess certain skills and knowledge. They include high levels of concentration, attention to detail and accuracy, excellent command of English language, ability to meet strict deadlines and work under intense pressure. Also one requires tact and diplomacy especially for working with authors. For onscreen editing, computer skills are necessary. In addition to these, high levels of self motivation are also mandatory.




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