Why consult an editor?
Words have a way of slipping from our grasp. And in longer formats, the shape of the text matters as much as the details. It’s not just a question of style, but also meaning: writers may lose their way in the story or argument, and fail to spot problems. That is why it helps to get a fresh eye to look things over; a source of practical support that will help you get the best from your work. With Oddfish you have access to decades of experience. The consultancy is led by Dr Susan Greenberg, an established professional with a track record as writer, editor, teacher and researcher. We also make referrals to colleagues, where different expertise is called for. Support is given to an agreed schedule, with written reports and feedback supplemented by meetings, to evaluate progress. We tailor to the needs of each client and project, drawing on the following types of attention…
Developmental editing
Developmental editing is about the big-picture decisions that shape a major writing project. It includes feedback on the work’s overall aim, genre, and intended audience; reviews of draft manuscripts for sense and style; and guidance on writing proposals and query letters.
Structural editing
Structural editing focuses on scaffolding, sequencing, tone, voice, and pace. For narrative storytelling, attention is given to story arcs and characterisation, with a nuanced take on the differences between fiction and nonfiction, when it comes to craft. For fact-heavy work, the focus is on clarity, persuasiveness and sourcing.
Copy & Line editing
The aim of line editing is to give close attention to the text at the level of each sentence, to achieve maximum writing craft. Copy-editing can include this, but the focus there is on applying consistency, accuracy and (where appropriate) house style. In both cases, it can be used as a standalone service, but works best when it comes as part of a coherent process.
Academic & Factual
Oddfish is steeped in experience with work that is research-heavy, while also aiming to offer an engaging read. This might involve narrative nonfiction genres such as life writing, travel writing, reportage, and the lyric essay. Or it might be for ‘crossover’ nonfiction (for academics aiming at a general public) and research-heavy fiction. For traditional academic writing, Oddfish offers HE-savvy guidance on research monographs and doctoral theses.
Coaching & Training
Oddfish knows what makes for effective teaching, training, coaching and mentoring for individuals and organisations, for both technical or creative writing. It also brings awareness of the things that can go wrong, and the external dependencies that impact a schedule. Support can be given online, in workshops, or one-to-one consults, and backed up with reports and other documentation.
Ghost-writing
Oddfish has experience in writing features, op-eds, white papers, and other outputs on behalf of clients. An experienced editor can help organise thoughts and translate ideas to the page for different audiences, and for different channels.
Testimonials
Professor Samantha Rayner, UCL
“Susan’s research into editing has been significant in a field where not much contemporary work has been done. She is, in addition, a committed and generous tutor who supports her students with expertise drawn from many years of experience.”
Alex Bertram, author
“Susan has expertly advised me on structure, style, and messaging. She edited a book proposal for which I have been offered an advance contract. Her remarkable feel for language and sensitivity to different audiences has led me to seeking her counsel across multiple platforms.”
Francis Harris, managing editor CEPA
“I worked with Susan over several years and developed the highest regard for her intellectual abilities, seen through her top-class editing work. She has an extraordinary range of knowledge acquired around the world and applies that through her work. She’s reliable and in an age of delay and prevarication, actually delivers on time in the agreed format.”