Line editing is editing the content of the story. It focuses on how the story is written, not what the story is.
It looks at the little picture items of the story: the grammar, language, sentences, and paragraphs used. It makes sure the story reads clearly and flows easily for readers.
Line editing is the second level of editing a book should go through. Line editing happens after developmental editing.
Line editing is about the logic of the details, the language, the readability, and the structure of the sentences.
The number of line edits a manuscript needs varies for each writer and manuscript. Line editing can take the most amount of time for an editor to do because they must read the book literally line by line and keep track of every small detail.
A line edit will consist of in-text commons on the manuscript. The editor will ask questions, note inconsistencies, and make sure the sentences read clearly and flow well.
A line edit may also consist of an editorial letter (a.k.a. editorial report/critique letter/manuscript evaluation) detailing the strengths and weaknesses of the manuscript with specific suggestions.
Line editing looks at many categories of writing craft.
Words
Spelling
Word choice (precise meaning, not vague meaning)
Phrasing
Overuse or underuse of words
Repetition
Sentences
Punctuation
Structure and length
Run-on sentences
Grammar and language rules
Cliches
Passive verbs
Verb tense
Subject-verb agreement
Clarity
Too much or too little infomation
Readability
Repetition
Flow
Rhythm
Dialogue
Structure
Consistency in style, tone, content, mood, voice, point of view, and tense
Transitions
Chronologic order
Story tension
A line editor must be the ideal reader for the book. The editor will work very closely with the author so a good relationship is a must. A line editor must be detail-oriented and organized in addition to the qualities of a developmental editor.
A line editor will make sure the story reads well for readers. The editor will make suggestions about sentences and paragraphs to create the best clarity and flow possible so readers stay engaged and immersed in the story.
Questions a Line Editor may ask include:
Is this sentence written correctly?
What did this sentence/paragraph do for the story? Does it move the story along?
What did this chapter accomplish?
Is the writing clear and consistent?
Comment below any questions you still have about line editing.