These guidelines cover the main areas you need to consider when editing your
colleagues work. 1. Don't alter the meaning
This is worst mistake you can make. Be very careful when substituting, deleting or
adding new words. Editing is like surgery – one wrong mistake and the patient croaks!
Even modifications to the punctuation can change the entire meaning of a passage. Also, be
very cautions about making changes when you don’t understand the material,
such as complex technical documentation, as this could significantly alter the meaning.
If you're not certain when editing, mark the section and go back to the writer. Always
keep an original version of the document. You can refer to this document if you ever get
muddled or confused about the meaning of the text.
The original copy is invaluable for verifying facts when discrepancies occur. Make sure
that each draft is clearly marked with a version number and/or revision
date. Also, in collaborative editing, make sure to include each respective editor’s
name, so you can speak to the correct person if required.
2. Don't change the style
Though standards are required across a company, make sure you don’t remove the
writer’s voice, particularity in sales material where the tone and style are very
difficult to modify without affecting the voice.
3. Don’t over-edit
All changes that you make have to be justified. Don’t alter the text, or change
the sentence structure, just for the sake of making your mark.
A good editor makes the revised material read better, not just look different.
4. Be Considerate
When editing on hardcopy (i.e. printed material), use a light pencil to write your
comments. Use a bright green or purple pencil to make your comments stand out. Try to avoid the dreaded red pen, as this usually looks very
intense and negative on the page.
An editor’s role is to assist, not to impose. Edit with consideration and patience
and you will build up trust in your team members. |
