Matthew D
Cape Coral, United States
“Effective communication solves problems.”
Specialist subjects:
Editing formats:
Education:
BA in History
University of Delaware
1996–2001
MS in Professional Writing
Towson University
2003–2005
Favorite referencing style
I prefer Harvard referencing given its simplistic style, but I can certainly work with the APA and MLA referencing styles.
Why I became an editor
I started editing when a friend showed me some copy for his client's web page. After reading a few sentences, I told him I couldn't let him post it online without a proper edit, if for no other reason than to preserve his reputation. Shortly after, I started the master's program at Towson University and began working as a professional editor in 2004. As an editor, I love to help shape ideas, clarify meaning, and make the final piece as good as it can be.
Background and experience
I was an editor and assistant managing editor for LexisNexis (later acquired by ProQuest) from 2004–2011 and managing editor from 2011–2019. Our product focused on the library and information services sector. I moved into an editor role centering on technology-related research with Gartner from 2019–2021 before moving into a management role there.
Why I love proofreading and editing
Proofreading is such an important part of the writing process. It weeds out errors that distract the audience from the writer's goal, which is to communicate a specific idea.
Favorite book:
The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway is my favorite book.
Hobbies:
I'm usually outside doing something on or near the water. I love to swim, fish, boat, kayak, or just go to the beach.
Editing tips:
I start by reading the document without correcting any errors to get a sense of the content and author's voice. I want to ensure consistency and accuracy in grammar and punctuation.
