substantive editing

S ubstantive editing (or structural editing) focuses on the overall structure of your document. Whether you are writing for clients, customers, academics, students or children, I make sure the format, style and tone are suitable for your purpose. Any major rewriting or rewording is done during this stage.

A substantive edit may take in the following areas:

Structure and content

• The table of contents is formatted to suit the way readers will use the document.
• Chapters may be reorganised so that topics are covered in a balanced way.
• Material may be reordered, removed or added to create a logical structure.
• Subheadings and captions may be added so readers can quickly find their way.
• Quotes or tips may be highlighted in boxes or sidebars.
• Additional notes may be included as footnotes, appendixes or chapter notes.
• Some information may be summarised in tables, graphs or maps.
• An index, an abstract or cross-references may be helpful in a complex document.
• Illustrations are chosen to suit the interests and age of the readers.
• A glossary may be added to help readers understand unfamiliar words.

Style

• A coherent style is applied across all parts of your document.
• A referencing style is chosen to suit the type of document.
• The language level and tone are chosen to suit the audience and the topic.
• Regional words might be changed or explained for an overseas audience.
• Headings may be reworded to match your preferred style.
• Plain English rewording may make your document easier to understand.

Substantive editing is the first stage of a comprehensive edit; copy editing and proofreading follow.