CPW Editing & Proofreading 3

Question 1

A writer submits copy with 'alot' used repeatedly. What should the editor flag?

Accepted Answer

A nonstandard word that should be 'a lot'

Answer

'Alot' is not a standard English word; the correct form is always two words: 'a lot.'

Question 2

What does it mean to 'substantively edit' a manuscript?

Accepted Answer

Address content, organization, clarity, and argument

Answer

Substantive editing (also called developmental editing) focuses on the big-picture elements of content, structure, and clarity.

Question 3

The sentence 'Between you and I, the report was flawed' contains which error?

Accepted Answer

Wrong pronoun case after a preposition

Answer

Prepositions require object pronouns; 'between you and me' is correct, not 'between you and I.'

Question 4

When should an editor use '[sic]' in a quoted passage?

Accepted Answer

To signal that an error or unusual usage appears in the original source

Answer

'[Sic]' indicates that an error or oddity exists in the original quoted text and was not introduced by the editor.

Question 5

A document switches between 'organize' and 'organise' throughout. What should the editor do first?

Accepted Answer

Determine which style guide and regional standard applies

Answer

The correct spelling depends on whether the document follows American or British English conventions as specified by the applicable style guide.

(CPW) Certified Professional Writer Practice Test