When I deliver a business book edit, I provide a style sheet with editorial report.

A style sheet is a regular tool used by traditional publishers.

It’s used to ensure internal consistency for the author and consistency between the author and other parts of the publishing process e.g. the copyeditor and the proofreader.

It's a bit like how a roofer uses scaffolding.

Structure, consistency and efficiency 🤩

Who creates a style sheet?

You’ll find a style sheet is traditionally created by an editor, and may include any parts of the book that deviate from the publisher’s style guide.

For example, any particular spellings and hyphenation choices that have been agreed.

For example, the author is keen to use ‘wellbeing’ without a hyphen while the publisher’s style guide calls an author to follow the Oxford English Dictionary, which gives ‘well-being’ with a hyphen.

This needs to be noted, so that the author’s choice is respected.

What about self-publishing authors?

A style sheet may be a completely new concept for self-publishing authors of business books.

I share my suggestions in report format so that authors have clarity about what the edit and the style sheet are showing them.

What does a style sheet with editorial report include?

The editorial report is specific to the author’s book.

I may talk about particular themes or imagery the author has used, and any areas I need to draw to their attention.

When I reach the more traditional style sheet, I explain how it works.

Here’s an example:

The following notes show the spellings and style conventions I’ve used for consistency throughout the edit. These are based on your questionnaire,* the [relevant] style guide, and items I’ve noted during the edit.

⭐ I send out a questionnaire before I start an edit so that I understand the author’s preferences.

Great feedback

My style sheet with editorial report has been received well by business book authors.

Here’s what Sharon Eden, author of RE-DISCOVERED, due to be published in October 2024, had to say:

“Your style sheet was a revelation for me and enhanced my writing voice for ever. Who knew???”

Please drop me an email if you'd like to talk about your book and be added to my waiting list.

#Editing

#Proofreading

#BusinessBooks

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📚 Stop your readers getting distracted by wordy niggles.

I’m Lisa. I’m an editor and proofreader, specialising in business books and fiction. I spent many years as a chartered accountant before retraining as an editor and proofreader. Now I get to embrace my degree in English Lit!