Catherine A
Kenosha, United States
“Making sure your readers can see how brilliant you are.”
Specialist subjects:
Editing formats:
Education:
BS in Biology
Northern Illinois University
1979–1983
Favorite referencing style
I prefer the APA style simply because I have the most experience with it.
Why I became an editor
I have always loved to read. When I was paying attention, I absorbed information like a sponge.
In each position I have held, I gravitated toward the writing and editing aspects of the work. I love editing for the same reason that I love science: it’s all about knowing how each word works and how they all fit together.
Now I spend my time helping people express themselves the way they want to be heard.
Clean, clear communication is needed today more than ever; it’s a joy to help make it happen.
Background and experience
I spent 15 years in the research side of the pharmaceutical industry. Then I acted on my love of books and went to work for my city library. In between helping patrons find what they needed, I proofread the library’s program flyers.
I work with an author/publisher who creates material for role-playing games. It requires an interesting combination of skills; the story line needs to be exciting, plot-driven fiction, and the presentation has to conform to all the requirements of the game rules.
Why I love proofreading and editing
When a complicated subject is explained clearly and precisely or when a scene is described so well that I feel I am there, it thrills me. It’s music to my ears. I often read passages aloud just to experience the flow and the rhythm of the words. To help people achieve that level of clarity with their writing is very satisfying to me.
Favorite book:
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle shaped my childhood and showed me the power of words. I have refused to see any of the movies made from it because I have heard that the author hated them.
Hobbies:
I like to get outside and take long walks in nature. When I am home, I work at being a dutiful cat servant. They seem satisfied with me.
Editing tips:
I have a routine I follow before I sit down to work. I brew a cup of tea, straighten my desk (those chocolate bar wrappers have to go), and turn on some instrumental music. Now I’m ready to dive in.
