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Types of Book Editors
The following is a brief taxonomy. The next two sections go more deeply into the roles of these editors in the publication process. It should be noted that many editors wear several hats: for instance, the acquisitions editor is usually also the project editor, and sometimes a developmental editor.
Acquisitions Editor
- Finds and signs authors with publishable work or book proposals that fit the publisher's goals
- Usually becomes the liaison between author and publisher, edits the work comprehensively, and shepherds it through production
Project Editor
- Schedules all aspects of the editorial process, which can include hiring the editorial team
- Responsible for setting and maintaining editorial standards
- Insures communication between members of the editorial team, including the designer
Developmental Editor
- Collaborates with the author from an early stage to develop a publishable work
- Work can include asking the author for additional content, restructuring and rewriting passages in accordance with a particular format or style, and/or excising content that does not fit a book's focus
- Establishes a skeletal style sheet with sample pages to be used by copyeditor
Copyeditor
- Corrects errors in grammar, usage, and consistency
- Queries the author with questions about conflicting statements or facts and incorporates the changes
Proofreader
- Scours the typeset manuscript for typos and other errors
Production Editor
- Responsible for the entire production process, including scheduling and tracking
- Responsible for hiring a designer and acquiring estimates from printers
- Assures that books are well printed and delivered
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