What is a Line Editor?

Written by 90 Seconds
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Last updated: October 4, 2023
What is a Line Editor?

While similarities exist with the traditional editor role, a line editor can be considered the ‘finisher’ of a piece, putting the final touches on the edit to ensure its cohesive, optimised, and consistent with the direction set for the video.

As the title would suggest, a line editor works line-by-line, tightening up sentence structure so the language is sharp, clear and delivers on its intended use. Concerned with the pacing and logical flow of a piece, a line edit focuses on the overarching content, style, and the language used within the overall video, whereas a copy editor focuses on the script at a more technical level, assessing grammar, punctuation, and flow. Instead, a line edit is focused on the content, style, and language used within the manuscript.

Looking at the piece holistically, a professional line editor will point out sections that can be improved or enhanced, areas where the style or language used may be inconsistent, trouble with pacing or overuse of certain words or phrases. As if taking a step back, they look closely at how the vocabulary and syntax contributes to the tone or emotion of a piece of writing – especially important for content that will be distributed globally and received by a variety of cultures.

As the title would suggest, a line editor works line-by-line, tightening up sentence structure so the language is sharp, clear and delivers on its intended use.