Honorary president: Judith Butcher Honorary vice-president: David Crystal OBE
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Why edit?
Examples of the difference that good editing can make
The SfEP is compiling a collection of positive examples of editing – ones that demonstrate what a difference good editing can make to a text in terms of clarity and readability.
These examples go a step further than the usual exposing of gobbledegook, poor English and greengrocers' apostrophes. Instead, we aim to highlight the value of what we do by giving 'before' and 'after' examples and including an explanation of each problem and its solution.
Latest examples
Helping to produce smoothly flowing, idiomatic English
Turning awkwardly phrased text into content that flows naturally for both English-speaking and international readers.
Simplifying a congested paragraph into clearer and better-flowing English
Getting text to speak directly to readers in a relaxed but direct way, with clear signposts.
Why edit? archive
Submitting an example to 'Why edit?'
Have you dealt with a piece of copy that showed really well why editing is worth the time, effort and money? The 'Why edit?' team welcomes submissions from SfEP members and associates. All you have to do is follow some simple instructions...
SfEP's best practice
Good relationships between clients/employers and freelances/employees are vital. You'll find some really clear pointers in our code of practice – insights into professional behaviour, plus standards for a variety of editorial functions – and our contracts and terms & conditions for both freelances and limited companies.