I've been fortunate to work closely with some really good editors over the years.
Sadly, not every writer can say the same.
Maybe this has happened to you? You turn over your novel or magazine feature article to an editor for a thorough once-over, thinking the "extra set of eyes" will uncover all the things you can't because, well, you've been lookin' at the thing for way too long.
* Spelling mistakes
* Grammatical errors
* Formatting issues
* Plot holes and weak transitions
* Confusing language
* Factual errors
* Anything else that hurts the piece
You're also hoping for some constructive criticism from your editor, even if it means rewrites. Instead, there isn't any feedback. They just say, "Looks good to me, man." They blew through the document like a speed reader trying to set a new record. In so doing, they caught about half the errors.
Heck, they even edited a new error into your piece. SACRILEGE!!!
20 Qualities of Good Editors
Producing consistent, error-free text is the fundamental task of any editor who works with written copy. Plain and simple. Good editors shape your writing. They make your article look the way you meant it to be.
Every writer needs good editors. But how do you know you have the right one?
Here are 20 qualities of good editors:
They have an obsession with grammar.
They have an eye for detail.
They want you to succeed.
They respect your passion and overall connection to your piece.
They offer constructive feedback.
They'll be honest with you.
They don't have an ego.
They are OK with being the unsung hero.
Good editors are also avid readers.
They've edited "stuff" like yours before.
They have empathy and good judgment.
They don't inhibit your style.
Good editors don't make changes just to make changes.
They improve sentences for readability.
They can spot inconsistencies.
They ensure every sentence counts.
They explain the changes they made.
They want to educate you.
A good editor communicates promptly.
They love that they helped you.
Need a good editor? Call Edit This
The good news is that more often than not, you're going to find a really good editor to help take whatever it is that you're writing from good to great. Many of them are working for the same organizations you're writing for – which is also a huge bonus. But if you're on your own, and you're in the market for good editors, give Edit This a call.
We bring more than 20 years of content writing and editing experience to the table. That means we've been in your shoes. We take great pride in ensuring our copy looks great, and we want the same for you and everyone in your organization.
Our writing and editing services cover clients nationwide but are local to anyone in Denton, Corinth, Lake Dallas, Shady Shores, Hickory Creek, Lewisville, Flower Mound, Highland Village, Argyle, and the rest of DFW.
*STEVE GAMEL is the President & Owner of Edit This, a writing and editing services company located in Denton, TX. Steve handles anything involving the written word. Give him a call today to help give your business a clear voice.
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