Editing Sentences and Words

Editing:

"When editing a text, the writer's goal is to make it easier to read."

"During editing, the writer concentrates on refining words and sentences."

"An editor . . . [refines] what has been done and [makes] it aesthetically pleasing as well as functional."

Edit on the computer first. Then, edit on a hard copy. Studies show that we see and read very differently between the screen and the page.

Beware of grammar and spelling checkers on computers! They are computer programs: they are programmed to search only for specific patterns. Human language and communication is much more complex than this.

Revising and Editing Sentences:

Revise Sentences for Structure and Grammar -- "Correctness"

Revise Sentences for Punctuation and Mechanics -- More "Correctness"

Revise Sentences for Effectiveness and Clarity -- "Style"

Length

Complexity / Syntax

Revising and Editing Words:

Revise Words for Correct Spelling

Revise Words for Effective and Correct Word Choice / Diction / Vocabulary

Levels of Diction / Formality

Concrete vs. Abstract Words

Specific vs. General Words

Tone

Wordiness

Euphemisms

Clichés and Mixed Metaphors

Sexist Language

A Vocabulary for Editing:

"Grammar" = a system of word structures and word arrangements / a body of rules

"Morphology" = words; their forms and structures

"Phonology" = language sounds

"Semantics" = word meanings

"Diction" = the choice of words

"Syntax" = sentence structure; arrangement in phrases, sentences

"Punctuation" = a system of standardized marks

"Mechanics" = the technical part of writing