What is Line Editing?
Line editing services enhance writing by refining the sentence and paragraph level to improve flow, clarity, and style. Every word is carefully evaluated to enhance the overall emotion and tone of the material.
Line editors improve sentence structure, word choice, tone, and readability to make the content clear and engaging. They carefully improve wording to enhance the flow and rhythm of the text, ensuring that the reader stays engaged throughout. Additionally, line editors ensure that their revisions are in harmony with the author’s writing style and genre, emphasizing artistic and stylistic quality to convey the author’s voice effectively.
The Differences Between Line Editing & Copyediting
Developmental editing and manuscript critiquing focus on the story, while line editing and copyediting focus on the author’s language use and associated details.
Line editors play a crucial role in refining and perfecting the narrative. They ensure that the story is clear and engaging and effectively conveys the author’s deep emotions for the characters.
Copyediting occurs after line editing and concentrates on language mechanics, encompassing spelling, grammar, punctuation, syntax, manuscript format, and related issues to ensure a thorough and effective editing process.



Tools Your Line Editor Uses
Asana
Bitwarden
Brevo
Buffer
Calendly
Canva
ChatGPT
ClickUp
Dropbox
Evernote
Facebook
Freshbooks
Google Workspace
Grammarly
Hootsuite
HubSpot
HubSpot Meeting
LinkedIn
MailChimp
Microsoft 365
Pinterest
Scrivener
SurveyMonkey
TimeCamp
Trello
WhatsApp
Line Editing Tasks
The Line Editing Process
How each editor approaches the line editing process varies. Atwood LLC’s process is as follows:
First Read. Your editor carefully reads the entire manuscript, paying close attention to writing style, voice, and any substantial issues. This comprehensive evaluation guarantees that the story’s progression stays smooth, identifies significant problems, and determines the most effective editing approach.
Second Read. We look for ways to enhance your story while respecting and keeping your authentic voice. In-line comments in the manuscript provide specific style sheet suggestions.
Third Read. In the final read, the editor looks for missed inconsistencies and returns the manuscripts to the author after completing the style sheet.
Complimentary Review. When the author finishes revising the manuscript, the editor conducts a complementary read to verify all recommended changes have been implemented and address any remaining questions the author may have.
Final Polish. The final readthrough is to ensure that all changes, including the contested ones, are in place. Finally, the editor returns all documentation, including supplemental materials sent at the beginning of the project, to the author for the next editing phase.
Line Editing Areas of Focus
A line editor always concentrates on specific elements. Atwood LLC examines the following:
Characterization
Content
Originality
Dialogue
Emotional Impact
Figurative Language
Imagery
Narrative Arc
Pacing
Paragraphs
Point of View (POV)
Redundancies
Repetition
Scene Flow
Sentence Construction
Show vs Tell
Syntax
Voice
Word Crafting
Line Editing Style Sheet
The style sheet content varies based on the manuscript’s editing type. Atwood LLC assesses and documents specific areas of interest:
Breakdown
Manuscript Premise
In-Line Commentary Notes
General Strengths
Areas for Further Improvement
Specific Manuscript Notes
Characterization
Content
Originality
Dialogue
Emotional Impact
Figurative Language
Imagery
Narrative Arc
Pacing
Paragraphs
Point Of View
Redundancies
Repetition
Scene Flow
Sentence Construction
Show Vs. Tell
Syntax
Voice
Word Crafting
Next Steps
How It Works
Schedule a Free Consultation
Book a complimentary consultation to explore how we can support your virtual assistant or editing requirements without strings attached.
Proposal & Contract
Receive a detailed proposal on the agreed-upon services and sign the electronic Independent Contractor Agreement (ICA).
Invoice & Deposit
Upon approval of the proposal, receive the invoice and pay the deposit to begin.
Plans & Pricing
Explore our plans and pricing options or contact us with questions or concerns.