CCE Style Guides & Editorial Standards

Question 1

According to the Chicago Manual of Style, when should the serial (Oxford) comma be used?

Accepted Answer

Before the conjunction in a series of three or more items

Answer

The Chicago Manual of Style recommends consistent use of the serial comma before the conjunction in a list of three or more items (e.g., 'red, white, and blue') to prevent ambiguity.

Question 2

What is the difference between copyediting and proofreading?

Accepted Answer

Copyediting addresses grammar, style, clarity, and consistency in a manuscript; proofreading checks for errors in a final proof

Answer

Copyediting is a more substantive process that addresses grammar, punctuation, style consistency, factual accuracy, and clarity. Proofreading is the final quality check on formatted proofs, catching remaining typos and layout issues.

Question 3

In AP (Associated Press) style, how are numbers one through nine typically written?

Accepted Answer

Spelled out as words

Answer

AP style spells out numbers one through nine and uses numerals for 10 and above. This differs from Chicago style, which spells out numbers one through ninety-nine in most contexts.

Question 4

What does 'stet' mean when marked on a manuscript?

Accepted Answer

Let the original text stand; disregard the proposed change

Answer

Stet is a Latin term meaning 'let it stand.' It is used to indicate that a previously marked change should be ignored and the original text should remain as written.

Question 5

What is a style sheet in the context of copyediting?

Accepted Answer

A document that records editorial decisions about spelling, hyphenation, capitalization, and other style choices for consistency

Answer

A style sheet is created by the copyeditor to track decisions about spelling variants, hyphenation, capitalization, abbreviations, and other choices to ensure consistency throughout the manuscript.

CCE - Certified Copyeditor Practice Test

CCE - Certified Copyeditor Practice Test

CCE Style Guides & Editorial Standards