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I provide three levels of editorial feedback (developmental, line, and copy editing), always with a focus on conscious language.
Developmental editing -- The big picture.
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Ensure clear and sufficiently robust arguments
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Suggest how to reorganize text for greater clarity and flow
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Identify where more analysis is needed and what text is unnecessary
Line editing – The style.
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Help you maintain a consistent voice across your piece
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Adjust the length and structure of sentences and paragraphs for clarity and flow
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Consider word choice to most effectively convey meaning
Copy editing – The grammar.
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Correct spelling, grammar, usage, and punctuation
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Ensure a consistent editorial style (Chicago, APA, etc.) across the manuscript
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Check cross-references, citations, figures, and tables
All of my editing provides feedback to help your writing use conscious language.
Karen Yin, founder of the website Conscious Style Guide, coined the term conscious language: “language rooted in critical thinking and compassion, used skillfully in a specific context.”
In all my editing, I seek to bring attention to language that may unintentionally harm marginalized or vulnerable groups. I explain how some readers might experience a word, phrase, or passage, and I provide potential alternatives. This is not about policing what can and cannot be written. Rather, it is about helping to ensure that my clients use language with intention.
I also provide consulting for institutions on developing communication guidelines and JEDI statements (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) and am available with my colleague Dr. Thoko Kamwendo to develop institution-specific trainings on conscious and inclusive language.
Get in touch to learn more.