DREM Book > Book editing > Copy editing

Professional book copy editing services

Copy editing checks and improves your manuscript for consistency, grammar, style and accuracy, so the text is clear and reads smoothly for readers.

Copy editing a manuscript
Copy editing marks on a page

What copy editing covers

  • Grammar, spelling and punctuation
  • Consistency of names, places, dates and terms
  • House style: capitals, numbers, dialogue and formatting choices
  • Clarity and flow of sentences and paragraphs
  • Fact-checking where the text makes factual claims

Who copy editing is for

Copy editing suits manuscripts that are structurally sound but need polish: most novels, memoirs and non-fiction books before they are published.

If the structure or pacing needs big changes, start with a developmental edit instead. We will tell you honestly which edit fits.

How we work

You receive a tracked-changes manuscript, with a short note on the main patterns we found. You decide which changes to accept, and we agree the scope and fee in writing before work begins.

Frequently asked questions

What is copy editing?

Copy editing improves a manuscript's grammar, consistency, style and clarity, without changing the author's voice or the book's structure.

Is copy editing the same as proofreading?

No. Copy editing comes earlier and improves the text. Proofreading is the final check of typos and errors after the book is formatted.

Talk to DREM Book

Email support@drembook.com with a short description of your book and what you need. DREM Book is a digital publishing service based at 3 High Barnes, Great Lumley, Chester-le-Street, England, DH3 4HX. We do not print or ship books. Every project starts with a written quote or agreement.