When proofreading only, an editor checks for errors in capitalization, punctuation, spelling, subject-verb agreement and word usage as well as for typos and inconsistencies in format* and style.*  

During more extensive copy editing, your editor checks for the same errors as when proofreading and peruses your document for redundancies, transitions between paragraphs, awkward phrasing and grammatical errors, also making note of any obvious factual errors.

Finally, content editing is the best option for those whose ideas are good, but who struggle with organization, wordiness or clarity as well as English grammar and other language mechanics.

A content editor helps a writer with general organization, clarity, coherence and conciseness as well as all of the services of proofreading and copy editing.  

Content editing generally takes two editing passes. Your editor will make suggestions regarding content and how to improve your writing but will not make significant changes without input from you.

Content editing can be helpful to those whose strengths are in disciplines other than language arts as well as to those with learning disabilities and those relatively new to the English language.

* Format relates to font type and size and the style of outline numbering, page numbering, headings and subheadings. Style is a specific guideline followed in making choices not affecting grammar. For example, The Associated Press Stylebook calls for spelling out numbers one through nine and using numerals beginning with 10.

We can do it ALL ―

just for YOU!

You've decided you're going to self-publish, and you want the end-product to reflect well on you.

We can transcribe and write your book, make sure it reads professionally and design the interior book block so that it looks great ― before you send it off to your printer!

EDITING

You've written your business presentation or the content for your web site or the book that's been winding its way around your head all these years. You know it's not quite right, but you don't know how to make it better. Áccent on Words can polish your words and turn them into a flawless, professional and interesting presentation.

Books are edited to industry standards, using The Chicago Manual of Style. Articles, newsletters, web sites and press releases are edited to industry standards using The Associated Press Stylebook. We not only edit your words, but we also pay attention to consistency of format, so that you end up with words that read flawlessly and a document that looks great.

INTERIOR BOOK BLOCK DESIGN

If you plan to self-publish your book, you may want to have the interior designed before sending it to your printer. Áccent on Words can design an attractive interior book block for you, including photographs and artwork, title pages, the copyright page, page numbering, page headers and chapter headers, among other things. We then turn the finished book block into a PDF file that can be transmitted via e-mail or CD to your printer.

ACADEMIC EDITING

You've done the research and written your dissertation or thesis. Suddenly it comes back from your graduation committee with a slew of requests for changes and notations of numerous mistakes― and you're shocked! Don't worry, it happens all the time, even to the best of scholars.

Plus, that seemingly endless list of references and citations can be especially frustrating. How do you know you've put them all in the proper format?

It may be the first time you've gone through the process, but it's not ours. We can help you put your dissertation, thesis or grad paper in the proper format and style and polish the wording so it will impress your graduation committee and help get you closer to getting that long-awaited degree.

Dissertations, theses, grad papers and academic journal articles are edited to specific academic standards using various style manuals, including the MLA Handbook, the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association and The Chicago Manual of Style, among others, depending on the requirements set forth by your graduation committee.

GHOSTWRITING

You have a story to tell or your life's experience to share, but you're not a writer.

We can help you share your experience, insight and wisdom with the world.

A book is also a great way to promote your business or put yourself forth as an expert in your field.

First, we discuss what you want to communicate in your book and how. Then we sit down for a series of taped interviews in person or over the phone. Those interviews are transcribed and then shaped into a book. We can also write creative chapter titles and captions for your photographs, graphics or artwork.

We don't have to stop there, of course. We can design the interior book block for you and even recommend a good printing company when you're ready to self-publish.

In other words ― we do the work, and you get the credit!

TRANSCRIPTION

At Áccent on Words, we can transcribe taped conversations, interviews or dictation on mini-cassette, standard-size cassette or from a digital file.

If you'd like to dictate your book or article instead of writing or typing it, we can transcribe your words and turn them into a finished document.

SOUND RECORDING TIPS: The better the sound quality of your recording, the faster the transcriber can type, which saves you money and speeds up turnaround time. The best sound quality is obtained by using a high-quality digital recorder. When using tapes, record at regular speed. Sound quality is diminished at half speed; therefore, it is more cost effective to use extra cassettes at regular speed.

When recording, if possible, stay indoors. Place the recorder equidistant between parties and have all parties face the recorder. Eliminate sounds that detract from voices, such as open doors or windows, air conditioners or fans, children or pets. Remind all parties to speak loudly and clearly and to refrain from cross talk. It is best to put the recorder closer to someone with a non-American accent. Remind telephone parties to speak clearly and directly into the handset. In interviews and direct dictation, spell names, place names and any unusual words at first mention.