This list is not exhaustive, so read the relevant section of the book: the relevant chapter or section number is given beside each heading or individual item. Some sections assume that you have been working primarily on a hard copy of the text (see section 16.7 for a checklist for on-screen editing), but most of it is applicable to all copy-editing tasks whether on a hard copy or on-screen.

An asterisk indicates things that could be done or considered at a preliminary stage, a dagger those that may be dealt with by the designer or production department, or covered by general instructions to the typesetter.

GENERAL

Completeness and organization (3.4)

• Confirm that the electronic files have been tested and checked to see that they match the hard copy exactly.

• Check that typesetter has all necessary fonts. If not, make it clear exactly what is wanted, and say whether each unusual character is used more than once or twice and if so whether it occurs throughout or only in one or two sections (2.1.1).

• Check that no folios are missing. If no fo. 66, make this clear.

• Number folios in one sequence. If extra folio added after 66, number it 66a; say ’66a follows’ on 66 and ‘67 follows’ on 66a.

• Mark where arabic pagination begins.

• Mark ‘run on’, ‘fresh page’, ‘recto’, ‘verso blank’, where appropriate. († A general note saying whether chapters start on fresh pages, rectos, or run on, is also useful.)