Levels of copyediting describe how deep a sentence-level pass goes. They are not a substitute for developmental editing (structure, pacing, argument). Mixing the labels is how authors buy the wrong pass.
Light, medium, heavy
- Light: grammar, typos, obvious consistency. Close to a strong proofread.
- Medium: the usual professional copyedit — grammar, usage, continuity, style sheet.
- Heavy / line edit: sentence rhythm, clarity, repetition — still not a plot rebuild. Line editor cost is usually higher than a light copyedit.
AuthorShelf lists copyediting + proofreading at $799 as one combined SKU (see the live product page). Developmental editing is separate ($380 listed). Prices: book editing services prices · types: types of book editing.
Manuscript editing rates in plain English
Freelancers often quote per word. Packages quote a scoped inclusion. If the manuscript still needs structure, a cheap “copyedit” wastes money. Hub: book editing services.