Levels of Editing

 There are three (3) levels of editing:

1. Light
2. Medium
3. Heavy

Each level involves a different approach and serves a different purpose. It certainly helps the editor if you already know which level of editing you require or expect when submitting your work. If you are not sure, the best option is to send them a sample beforehand so that they can advise you. 

Light editing - proofreading:

Your text will be checked for errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, capitalization,  and numbering (pages, tables, lists), in accordance with the style guide. 

Medium editing - copy editing

This is also called line editing and focuses on a clear, concise, and logical writing style. The editor will make sure that your use of language suits the purpose and target audience, in addition to verifying numbers, names, addresses, and other factual content.

This level of editing is most common. Your editor may choose to rewrite parts of your sentences in order to avoid repetition and make your text more engaging and reader-friendly. 

Heavy editing - content editing

This level involves improving the text as a whole, in terms of its overall structure and organisation. When submitting your finished academic article for publication, the feedback you receive from the reviewer may ask you to make changes of such nature, usually in terms of consistency and focus. A specialized editor, meaning one with extensive experience in your particular field of research, will be the best option here.