Content editing is conducted as a means of reviewing and assessing originated written words to ensure they are effective, cohesive and easily understandable, but also that they are likely to achieve the aspirations related to the reason for their existence.
There is a common misconception that editing is essentially correcting punctuation and spelling. We do that too (see proofreading), but editing in the way we deliver it stretches far beyond that. As content editors we work to modify the words to fit with the voice of the brand we’re working for. We check that the content within the document is applicable and fits the needs of the reader and the client.
Common details we look at as content editors are the title of the post, subheadings, how well the content itself delivers on the topic each of the headings represents. We check the strength and logic of the document, the quality of information held within and the validity of its sources.
It’s an important role, relating to standards, purpose and goals. Our aim as a content editor takes in these factors, and delivers a final piece that’s high in quality, actionable, readable and, of course, shareable.