Micro Editing - Have you edited for:

AP Style

Grammar

Punctuation

Spelling

Macro Editing – Have you edited:

The lead – does it make sense, is it supported by the rest of the story, is it in the first graf?

The story – is it fair, balanced and objective?

Libel – are there any statements that might be considered libelous?

Substance – is the story thorough and complete? Are there any “holes” in the story?

Writing - is the story well-written? Is it clear and understandable?

Assigning Editor Checklist

• Did the reporter double-check all names, titles and places mentioned in this story? Did the reporter properly check all phone numbers or Web addresses?
• Are the quotes accurate and properly attributed? Have we fully captured what each person meant?
• Is the story fair? Who or what might be missing from the story? Is the lede or nut graph sufficiently supported?
• Are there visual elements possible? Have they been assigned? Have you seen and approved the completed work?
• Are the background and context complete enough to tell readers why the story is relevant?
• Did the reporter sign off on changes made in the story?

Copy Editor Checklist

• Is the headline accurate & balanced? Do all aspects of the story and headline seem factually accurate? Is the story fair? Who or what might be missing?
• Is the background and context complete enough to give readers a sense of why the story is relevant?
• Is the lead sufficiently supported? Is the story fair?
• Have all phone numbers and Web addresses been CQ'd? Have you checked the math? Have you checked the spelling?
• Have you checked photo captions and graphics information against the story?
• Have you proofed the display type?