What Does an Editor Do?
A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Editing Process
You’ve written your thesis. Or your research article. Or your book. You’ve lived inside it for weeks or months — maybe even years. Now you’re considering hiring a professional editor. But you’re not quite sure what an editor actually does. Will they rewrite your voice? Will they just fix commas? Will they understand your field?
Let’s take the mystery out of the editing process.
Step One: Understanding What You Need
Before I make a single change, we start with a conversation. I ask about your goals, your audience, and where you’re stuck. Whether you're editing a thesis chapter or preparing a nonfiction manuscript for submission, I want to understand not just what you’ve written — but why.
This helps me determine the right level of editing for your work, which could include:
Structural editing – refining flow, logic, and argument
Line editing – improving clarity, tone, and sentence construction
Copy editing – correcting grammar, spelling, punctuation, and consistency
Formatting – ensuring your document meets academic or publishing requirements
Step Two: The Editing Process Begins
Once we’ve agreed on the scope, I dive into the document.
I don’t just “fix mistakes”. I ask questions, clarify ideas, and preserve your voice. You’ll see tracked changes and comments designed to guide, not overwhelm. If something’s unclear, I’ll suggest rewording — but always with the intent of helping your meaning land more clearly.
The goal isn’t to take over your writing. It’s to support it, sharpen it, and give it its best chance to be read and respected.
Step Three: Constructive, Personalised Feedback
Editing isn’t just about making changes — it’s about helping you grow as a writer.
My feedback includes:
Suggestions for clarity where meaning could be strengthened
Gentle challenges to vague arguments or awkward phrasing
Notes on tone or structure to ensure consistency throughout
Encouragement when something reads beautifully (because editing isn’t only about what’s wrong)
Many of my clients say they learn more from this process than from any writing workshop or supervisor feedback.
Step Four: Review, Refine, and Final Polish
Once you’ve reviewed the edits, you’re welcome to ask questions, revise sections, or request further clarity. If your project includes multiple rounds, we refine it together until it’s submission- or publication-ready.
Whether it’s heading to examiners, publishers, or professional audiences, you’ll walk away with a polished, confident, and compelling piece of writing.
Thinking of Working with an Editor?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, too close to your work, or unsure how to make it shine — that’s the perfect time to bring in an editor.
You don’t have to figure it out alone.
You don’t have to be “ready” — just open to support.
You don’t need perfection — just progress.
Get in touch for professional editing support and let’s get your words working for you.