Gillian has sub-edited numerous publications,
documents and websites in Australia and Southern Africa. She has dealt with
African government ministers and their departments, multinationals, Australian
local councils and government departments, corporations and many different kinds of
businesses. In terms of material, Gillian has sub-edited magazines, business newspapers,
scientific publications, annual reports, software documentation, websites and web-based
communications, advertising and marketing communications, video scripts, local
council reports and strategic business plans.
What's involved
Clear communication
is the desired end result of all publications. The style of
the communication should suit the reader, the intention of the communication and the
medium. The sub-editor needs to view a document from the perspective of the
author, the reader and the publisher. The job of the sub-editor is sometimes summarised by the 'Five C's' -
make it clear, correct, concise, comprehensible and consistent. Sub-editors are
also required to work within a budget and to adhere to tight timetables.
The craft of
sub-editing covers various areas:
Structural editing
The sub-editor looks at the document as a
whole in terms of content, structure, language and presentation. All of these
elements need to reflect the aim of the publication and to meet the expectations
of the readers.
Copy editing
Here the focus is on accuracy
and consistency in terms of word use, grammar, punctuation, spelling, style and
layout.
Proofreading
The final check for errors and
inconsistencies before publication.
