Expert Book Copy Editing Services

Refine your manuscript with a professional editor.

To begin, call 856-460-8069

If life teaches us anything, it’s that everyone makes mistakes, especially when writing a 415,000-word novel. This happened in *A Dance of Dragons*, where Cersei Lannister was mistakenly identified as male during her “walk of atonement.” This small error shifts the tone from deep sorrow to unintended humor. Shame, shame.

A great story needs to be both compelling and consistent. That’s why BookBaby has professional copy editors to ensure your manuscript maintains its quality from the first page to the final line.

What is Copy Editing?

Copy editing emphasizes the technical details of your manuscript to ensure it aligns with industry standards. A professional copy editor will:

  • Ensure story elements (plot, setting, characters, etc.) are consistent
  • Correct spelling, grammar, and syntax errors
  • Identify missing words
  • Maintain a consistent writing style
  • Clarify vague or inaccurate statements
  • Catch any overlooked mistakes

Copy editing vs. Proofreading

Copy editing is the phase where nearly all errors are identified and corrected. Copy editors scrutinize every word, letter, and punctuation mark, making significant yet minor adjustments to the manuscript.

Proofreading is the last editing stage, where a fresh, skilled set of eyes examines the manuscript. Proofreaders often help authors avoid embarrassing and simple mistakes.

What do Copy Editing services include?

Your copy editor will perform these services when reviewing your manuscript:
  • Correct any typos, especially spelling, grammar, punctuation, and syntax errors
  • Fill in missing words
  • Make new paragraphs to break up long passages
  • Ensure consistent spelling, hyphenation, numerals, fonts, and capitalization
  • Flag ambiguous or factually incorrect statements (crucial for non-fiction)
  • Track larger concerns like discrepancies in your plot, setting, and character traits
Overall, your copy editor will impose a consistent style for your text. Most editors use The Chicago Manual of Style as preferred unless the work needs to conform to an academic convention such as AMA, or MLA.
At $7 per page, copy editing will  save you time and money in the long run.
I’ve only completed the Copy Editing stage so far. The editing was meticulous, and I valued the correction of small errors that could make a book appear unprofessional in print. Additionally, the editor honored my style and grasped my grammatical choices.

– Judith, BookBaby Author

How BookBaby Official’s editing process works

1. Select the book editing service that suits your needs.

2. Submit your Word document.

3. Get your expertly edited manuscript back in 6-10 business days.

You don't need to place a book order to use our professional editing services. Just provide your completed manuscript, and we'll get started.

Frequently asked questions:

How BookBaby's Editing Process Operates

Book proofreading is the crucial final stage of the editing process. Once your manuscript has undergone professional editing, a proofreader will conduct a last review to address any lingering mechanical and grammatical issues before your book goes to print. Proofreading differs from structural editing as it targets minor errors and inconsistencies rather than making substantial content changes.

Copy editing involves a detailed, word-by-word review focusing on grammar, usage, and consistency. A copy editor will fix continuity issues, correct technical problems, and resolve major loose ends to ensure your manuscript is clear and coherent for readers.

What distinguishes copy editing from line editing?

Copy editing involves a detailed, word-by-word review that addresses grammar, usage, and consistency concerns. Your copy editor will fix continuity issues in your story and make sure your manuscript is free of technical errors and major loose ends that could confuse readers.

Line editing, on the other hand, is a thorough structural review that hones in on the subtleties of language—such as the flow of ideas, transitions, tone, and style. Your line editor will critically assess your manuscript’s writing flow, language use, and character development, offering suggestions to enhance how effectively you convey your story while preserving your unique voice.

How should I prepare my manuscript file for editing?

Only one manuscript file is required for editing services. Book cover files are neither needed nor accepted.

Manuscript requirements:

  • Language: English or Spanish only
  • File Type: Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx)
  • Page Size: 8.5×11 inches
  • Page Margins: 1 inch on all sides (left, right, top, and bottom)
  • Font Type: Times New Roman
  • Font Size: 12 pt
  • Line Spacing: Double