Copy editing is the last editorial phase in preparing a manuscript for publication; it occurs after content and overall structure are set. Copy editing focuses principally on language and writing, rather than on content, though content may be addressed especially if the work has not undergone developmental editing. Both fiction and nonfiction manuscripts need copy editing to produce an accurate, polished work that creates a smooth read.. Depending on the amount of editorial changes the manuscripts requires, copy editing may range from light to heavy. (Very heavy editing is known as substantive editing. Please see my Substantive Editing service.) As your copy editor, I edit your work for clarity, consistency within your premise, style, and flow. I review and correct or enhance sentence and paragraph structure, word usage, and writing mechanics including grammar, spelling, and punctuation. In fiction, I will recognize and honor when grammatical rules are broken for effect. If I am uncertain about your intent in any passage, I check with you.