Edits come in different levels, depending on what a manuscript needs and what you want done to it.
Basic Copyedit
A basic copyedit involves ensuring that your manuscript is free of spelling, punctuation, and grammar errors. This level will also ensure consistency of headings and list items, making sure the table of contents matches what’s in the manuscript, and making sure that items are properly cited, figures are labeled consistently, and basic formatting is consistent (all A-heads are the same size and font, for example).
Heavy Copyedit
A heavy copyedit includes everything in a basic copyedit plus some general suggestions for rewording and slight reorganizational changes. It may include a limited number of recommendations for reorganization or section deletion/addition.
Developmental Edit
If your manuscript needs a developmental edit, that means it’s still in a somewhat early stage. The editor will recommend major organizational changes, possibly the removal or addition of sections, maybe the addition of specific features or images, and even changes in tone or plot. At this stage it’s too early for the editor to do copyediting as so many things are still in flux; however, the editor will mark up the manuscript to point out where changes should be made.
Editorial Assessment
An editorial assessment consists of reading your manuscript and giving you broad feedback about what needs to be done before the manuscript is ready for publication. An editorial assessment may recommend major rewrites or changes or a different approach or format. The assessment may also offer suggestions for preparing a website or social media platform in anticipation of future manuscript publication. The assessment is created in a separate document—unlike in a developmental edit, in an editorial assessment the editor does not usually mark up the manuscript.
Proofread
Proofreading consists of comparing a proof (a digital file) with an earlier version to make sure requested edits were made. The proofreader compares the two versions line by line. Pickletack does not offer this service as it is not an editorial function. (Note: In some countries, the term proofreading refers to a very basic copyedit.)