Essential Books for Editors

Modern English Usage by Fowler (revised by Burchfield)

This is a cornerstone of style guides. First published in 1926, Fowler’s work offers clear and witty advice on proper English usage, covering everything from grammar and punctuation to word choice and sentence construction. The revised edition by Burchfield incorporates modern examples and corpus linguistics data, making it a relevant classic. It emphasizes a clear and concise writing style, avoiding unnecessary jargon and convoluted sentences.

Swan’s Practical English Usage

This is a user-friendly guide to common grammar and usage problems in English. Written by a renowned linguist, Swan’s book provides clear explanations and real-world examples, making it a practical resource for new copyeditors. It focuses on both British and American English conventions, making it versatile for various writing styles.

There’s a key difference in how Modern English Usage by Fowler (Burchfield) and Swan’s Practical English Usage present information:

Fowler’s book organizes information alphabetically by specific words, phrases, or grammatical concepts. Imagine a dictionary-like format where you look up a particular term (“split infinitive” or “comma splice”) and find a discussion about its proper usage, along with examples and Fowler’s witty commentary. This approach is helpful when you have a specific question about a particular construction.

Swan’s book organizes information by broader grammatical concepts. It has sections on verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, or different types of clauses. Each section then delves deeper into specific issues within that concept, offering explanations and examples. Swan’s book is good for understanding the underlying principles of grammar and how they influence specific usage cases.

Think of Fowler’s book as a well-stocked toolbox. You know exactly which tool (grammatical concept) you need and can go straight to it. Swan’s book, on the other hand, is like a well-organized workshop manual. It guides you through broader grammatical principles, helping you understand how different tools (concepts) work together.

Ultimately, both approaches are valuable for copyeditors.

• Use Fowler’s book for quick reference and clarification on specific usage points.
• Use Swan’s book for a more comprehensive understanding of grammatical concepts and their application.

Hart’s Rules by Shrunk and White

This is another essential reference for editors. Originally published in the late 19th century, Hart’s Rules is a comprehensive guide to English usage, covering punctuation, style, and even some typography. While some aspects might need modernization, it remains a valuable resource for understanding the finer points of grammar and upholding traditional writing conventions.

The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White

This is a classic and concise guide to clear and effective writing. It emphasizes principles like clarity, brevity, and active voice. It’s a great resource for all writers and editors, providing timeless advice on writing style.

Think of Elements of Style as a “writer’s cheat sheet” with essential rules for clear and concise writing. It is a great starting point for anyone who wants to improve their writing clarity and effectiveness. On the other hand, Hart’s Rules is a comprehensive “editor’s handbook” providing detailed guidance on various aspects of writing mechanics and style and is a valuable resource for editors who need in-depth guidance on grammar, punctuation, and traditional publishing style.

Complete Grammar by Michael Strumpf

This is a comprehensive grammar reference book. It delves deeper into the structure of English and provides detailed explanations of grammatical concepts. While valuable for those who want a thorough understanding of grammar, it might be more suited for advanced learners or editors who need to tackle complex grammatical issues.

Garner’s Modern English Usage

It’s a crucial reference for anyone working with American English. It’s comprehensive and authoritative, covering a vast range of topics related to modern American English. It delves into grammar, punctuation, word choice, style, and even pronunciation.

Unlike some classic references that might feel dated, Garner’s book acknowledges the evolution of language. It includes the “Garner’s Language-Change Index” which indicates the acceptability of debated usages in contemporary English. This helps editors navigate the ever-changing landscape of language.

While comprehensive, Garner’s book is known for its clear explanations and engaging writing style. Garner often uses real-world examples and witty commentary, making it a valuable and enjoyable resource for editors.