Wordsmiths South Africa: Professional editing services

Where do we begin?

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Our general approach is to assess a document before submitting a quotation for the work. For this reason, we need to see a sample of the text, in order to present a quotation as well as a breakdown of the intervention necessary.

We work according to the following general brief, as well as implementing any special instructions from the client:
  • To check page numbering, headings, contents page, overall correctness of text, consistency and general flow.
  • To correct errors of grammar, spelling and punctuation.
  • To establish consistent use of terminology, spelling, capitalisation, italics, hyphenation, abbreviations and numbers.
  • To check for appropriate use of language, based on the intended target audience of the material.
  • To ensure a logical flow in the discussion/argument.
  • To ensure the information is presented clearly and concisely, based on the principles of Plain English editing.
  • To simplify language where necessary (using short sentences, bullets instead of long paragraphs, simple words, etc) for accessibility.
  • To eliminate unnecessary duplication and repetition.

“Incorrect spelling is an indication of lack of education at best; at worst, just sloppiness.” 
– James F. Balderson