Here’s an interesting science-based explanation of why we fail to see mistakes in our own writing. This supports the common practice of having someone with ‘fresh eyes’ proofread any important document. From Nick Stockton at wired.com.
Tag: editing
Jan 03
Say again?
Apr 15
Early copyediting
Last week I visited the Museum Plantin-Moretus in Antwerp, Belgium. The 16th- and 17th-century printshop is fascinating and beautiful. Spelling was a quite flexible concept back then, but sharp-eyed copyeditors checked proofs for typesetting and other errors.
Nov 26
Holiday letters and cards
It’s late November, and the diligent, organized types are already updating their address list, buying festive stamps, unpacking the greeting cards they bought on clearance sale after last Christmas, and brainstorming the highlights of the annual family letter. Others will decide on December 29 to send a hasty, guilt-driven New Year greeting to reciprocate for …
Feb 22
What does a copyeditor do?
Here’s a clear and precise explanation of each role in the publication process. Not every book/article/dissertation/essay/grocery list goes through the same editorial steps. There are variations according to the manuscript’s genre, project budget, and anticipated scale of distribution. A self-publishing writer of science fiction may be able to afford only a proofreader. A major newspaper …