Editing requires a degree of accuracy and precision, but not only that. It also requires an equal degree of comfort with ambiguity and uncertainty. In this guide I am seeking to influence your editorial deliberations and decision-making processes with all of this in mind.

As you consider the definitions and recommendations offered, you will need to weigh your editorial approach and decisions in light of:

1. 1. Personal context – your experiences, worldview and the type of editor you are or wish to be

2. 2. Societal context – our world is in constant flux, especially the ways in which we communicate, so always keep in mind that things may have changed since the publication of this guide. You will need to maintain your vigilance on usage, read widely and continue to think deeply about the potential and actual effects of change on how audiences might interpret a given text

3. 3. The brief – consider what is said and not said, and how you can meet the needs of your author, client/employer as well as the intended reading audience for the work you are editing

4. 4. Advice and recommendations from professional, industry and technical experts, beta-readers, reviewers and communities of practice that apply to the work you are editing.