What do editors do?

Editors improve written communication.

Whether it's a book, a journal article, a website, a corporate publication, a training manual, a legal document, or a scientific treatise, an editor with the relevant background and knowledge can make it clear, appropriate for the readership, logical and well-organised.

An editor can help with:

getting the words right
targeting your publication to the intended audience
structuring your information in the most effective way
checking facts and references
correcting spelling, grammar, punctuation and word choice
preparing a document for design and layout by coding headings and other elements for the graphic designer.

Editors work with all types of text. They have academic qualifications in a variety of areas, from language and the liberal arts to science, law, business, media studies or politics. Some editors also have vocational qualifications in editing and publishing.

Editors can advise you about the publishing process, brief designers, illustrators, photographers and printers, and supervise a project to ensure that the finished product is what you want and is delivered on time and within your budget.

If you would like to advertise a position in your company, please contact to advertise on our e-list.

If you are looking for an editor for a particular project, the Society's Freelance Register contains details of editors who offer a range of services, and offers advice about contracting with freelance editors.