Copyediting at The New Yorker

The video discusses the role of copy editors at The New Yorker, highlighting the meticulous nature of their work and the importance of adhering to house style. It contrasts the mechanical process of copyediting with the interpretive role of query proofreading. The speaker shares examples of common mistakes and reader feedback, emphasizing the challenges faced by copy editors. The video also delves into specific grammar and punctuation issues, illustrating the complexities of maintaining consistency and accuracy in editing.

What is the primary focus of a copy editor at The New Yorker?

• Managing the editorial team

• Designing magazine layouts

• Choosing articles for publication

• Ensuring sentence-level accuracy

How does query proofreading differ from copyediting?

• It is less detailed than copyediting

• It focuses on graphic design

• It is more interpretive and suggests improvements

• It involves selecting articles for publication

What is the speaker's ultimate goal in their role as a copy editor?

• To become famous

• To make the author look good

• To change the magazine's style

• To write their own articles

What mistake did a reader point out regarding the term 'no-nothingism'?

• It was a spelling error

• It was a factual inaccuracy

• It was a grammatical mistake

• It was a style inconsistency

What is a common criticism of The New Yorker's punctuation style?

• Excessive use of commas

• Overuse of semicolons

• Inconsistent use of colons

• Lack of periods

What is the role of an editor in relation to a writer?

• To manage the writer's schedule

• To protect and enhance the writer's work

• To publicly critique the writer's work

• To rewrite the writer's articles

How does the speaker describe their reputation among writers?

• As lenient and forgiving

• As stern and strict

• As indifferent and detached

• As overly critical

What grammatical issue did the speaker face with the phrase 'everyone held their breath'?

• Incorrect verb tense

• Misplaced modifier

• Incorrect punctuation

• Singular 'their' usage

What was the speaker's reaction to the use of 'mic'ed' in a story?

• They found it humorous

• They were distraught by its use

• They ignored it

• They accepted it as correct

What does the speaker suggest as an alternative to 'everyone held their breath'?

• 'All individuals held their breath'

• 'Everyone held his or her breath'

• 'All in the vicinity held their breath'

• 'Each person held their breath'