---
name: "Copy editing"
repo: https://github.com/retieedra-profound/skills-marketing-library
source: https://github.com/retieedra-profound/skills-marketing-library/blob/HEAD/wisprflow/copy-editing/SKILL.md
license: "MIT"
install: "npx skills add retieedra-profound/skills-marketing-library --skill copy-editing"
page: https://100xlab.com/resources/agent-skills/wispr-flow-claude-skills--wispr-flow-copy-editing--1ui6ql6
---

# Copy Editing

## Editing Framework

### Pass 1: Clarity
- Is the main point immediately clear?
- Can anything be misunderstood?
- Are there unnecessary words?

### Pass 2: Conversion
- Is the benefit obvious?
- Is the CTA compelling?
- Are objections addressed?

### Pass 3: Voice
- Does it sound human?
- Is it consistent with brand?
- Would the audience use these words?

### Pass 4: Polish
- Grammar and punctuation
- Rhythm and flow
- Visual scanability

## Common Issues & Fixes

### Clarity Issues

| Problem | Before | After |
|---------|--------|-------|
| Vague benefit | "Save time" | "Cut reporting from 4 hours to 15 minutes" |
| Jargon | "Leverage our platform" | "Use our tool to..." |
| Passive voice | "Results are delivered" | "We deliver results" |
| Buried lead | [3 paragraphs then point] | [Point first, then context] |

### Conversion Issues

| Problem | Before | After |
|---------|--------|-------|
| Weak CTA | "Submit" | "Get Your Free Report" |
| Feature focus | "AI-powered engine" | "Type 4x faster" |
| No urgency | "Sign up anytime" | "Start free today" |
| Missing proof | [claim alone] | [claim + testimonial] |

### Voice Issues

| Problem | Before | After |
|---------|--------|-------|
| Corporate speak | "We endeavor to provide" | "We help you" |
| Over-enthusiastic | "Amazing!!! Best ever!!!" | "A better way to..." |
| Inconsistent | Formal then casual | Pick one, stick to it |
| Generic | "Welcome to our website" | [Specific value prop] |

## Line Editing Checklist

### Words to Cut
- Very, really, actually, basically
- In order to → to
- Is able to → can
- At this point in time → now
- The fact that → (remove)

### Words to Replace
| Weak | Strong |
|------|--------|
| Nice | Specific adjective |
| Good | Specific benefit |
| Things | Specific noun |
| Utilize | Use |
| Implement | Do/Build/Create |

### AI-Generated Tells (Remove)
- Em dashes (—)
- "Delve into"
- "Leverage"
- "Seamlessly"
- "Cutting-edge"
- "State-of-the-art"
- Excessive exclamation points

## Structural Editing

### Headlines
- One clear message
- Benefit over feature
- Specific over generic
- Under 10 words ideal

### Paragraphs
- One idea per paragraph
- First sentence = main point
- 2-4 sentences max
- White space between

### Lists
- Parallel structure
- Consistent punctuation
- 3-7 items (avoid long lists)
- Lead with strong words

### CTAs
- Action verb first
- Benefit included
- 2-5 words
- One primary CTA per section

## Before/After Examples

**Before:**
"We are excited to announce that our new platform is now available and it allows users to seamlessly integrate their workflow processes in order to achieve better results and improved efficiency."

**After:**
"Our new platform is live. Integrate your workflow in minutes and get better results faster."

---

**Before:**
"Submit your information to learn more about how we can help you leverage cutting-edge solutions."

**After:**
"Get your free demo → See how we can help."

---

**Before:**
"At Company, we believe in providing our customers with the best possible experience. Our team works tirelessly to ensure that every interaction delights."

**After:**
"We're obsessed with your success. Here's how we help."

## Output Format

When editing, provide:
1. **Edited version** (clean, ready to use)
2. **Key changes** (what was improved, why)
3. **Alternatives** (optional variations)
4. **Notes** (any questions or suggestions)

Format changes using:
- ~~strikethrough~~ for deletions
- **bold** for additions
- [comments] for explanations