When I do a stylistic edit or a copy edit, I create a style sheet for myself and the author. A style sheet is a wonderful resource that many new authors have never heard of. In this post I will explain exactly what it is, why it is so useful, and what to do with it once you have one.
What is It?
A style sheet is a document that lists all the story details and style choices an author has made that need to be kept consistent. Story details a style sheet may track are character names and descriptions, place names and descriptions, and made-up words (since I often edit fantasy). Style choice refers to decisions made about capitalization, hyphenation, italics, spelling, punctuation, and formatting to name a few.
Why is it Important?
The main purpose of a style sheet is to help ensure consistency. By keeping all the decisions in one document, it’s easier to ensure the style remains consistent throughout a novel.
A style sheet also helps an editor remember the particulars of an author’s voice. As I’ve mentioned before, an author’s voice is distinct in word choice and syntax. Taking notes helps an editor mimic the author’s voice in instances where some rewriting may be in order. It also makes it easier to spot areas where the voice has changed unintentionally.
And finally, a style sheet saves time and trouble. Not only in terms of checking suspected inconsistencies but also by explaining why certain aspects of a novel were changed. Rather than the editor adding an explanatory comment every time they, for example, italicize a character’s thoughts, the author can see by looking at the style sheet that interior monologue should be italicized.
What to Do Once You Have One
I always recommend reading through the style sheet and editorial letter before delving into the edits in the manuscript pages. Doing so will help you understand the foundation on which the edits and notes are based. This, in turn, will help you understand why certain changes were made.
The style sheet provides a great reference when you are going through an edit, especially if you are rewriting, expanding, or adding a new scene. Referencing the style sheet will help ensure consistency within the newly written scenes. It is also a great reference for ensuring consistency throughout a series.
Sometimes authors and editors will work together on every level of editing but not always. There are many reasons for an author to seek out different editors for different types of editing. In that case, your style sheet should be passed along to each editor working on the manuscript. This will ensure each editor understands why certain choices were made and can save them time and trouble as well.
Now that you know what a style sheet is, you should know that you don’t have to wait for an editor to make one for you. If you feel it would be helpful to have while still writing (and in my experience it definitely is), then go ahead and make one for yourself. Here is the template I use to make my style sheets.
Drop me a comment if you have any questions about style sheets.
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