A technical editor is responsible for the technical accuracy of the book or paper being published. In case of STM or academic publishing, what a technical editing specialist can bring to the table is immensely important. Technical editing involves reviewing text written on a technical topic, identifying language and factual errors, and ensuring adherence to a style guide.
The technical editor collaborates with writers and subject matter experts, making sure that the document is free from errors and meets the desired style guide specs. He/She plays a distinctive role in the content review process and can offer many benefits to an author, writing team or publishing organization.
So, what exactly is the role of technical editors in publishing?
The term ‘technical editor’ covers quite a range of roles and skills, from copy-editing materials to verifying technical content. Technical editing is usually a collaborative process with authors, to check correctness of the written text including chemical formulas, terminology, equations, and matchups between text and visual representations. It also covers more traditional aspects of writing like language basics and style.
They mostly do different aspects of editing that includes –
- Reviewing both content and form of the writing.
- A technical editor could also serve as a technical analyst who verifies the technical accuracy of what was written.
- Identifying errors related to language (spelling, punctuation, and grammar) and making sure the writing is stylistically consistent.
- Proofreading and comparing the final version of the document with the marked-up version to make sure that all corrections have been made.
- Ensuring that there is no wrong scientific terms, wrong units and dimensions, inconsistency in significant figures or technical ambivalence.
- Correction of synopsis, content, index, headings and subheadings,
- Correcting data and chart presentation, and errors in citations.
- Technical editors often work closely with researchers and developers whose work must conform to strict guidelines. They ensure that all the necessary guidelines are adhered to in the work.
- Assistance with the development of technical materials and providing technical assistance to the writers, if needed.
Technical editors are responsible for the quality of information in the final book. Experienced and professional editing will catch factual and language errors in the text before it goes for publishing, preventing additional costs, and possible legal action. Technical editing is an indispensable part of publishing high-quality content and plays a key role in ensuring that your writing is clear, concise, and free of errors.
