English language editing at A&A

Abstract

Language editing was introduced into the A&A editorial process in 2001. Here, we report on how this is done in practice and on the criteria that are applied. A&A introduced language editing as a service to its authors in 2001. Since that time, the scope and coverage of articles has increased steadily with the goal of making all the articles published in the Journal as clear and concise as possible. The Journal now employs three full-time language editors, all professionals with university degrees and with extensive training or experience in editing, language teaching, writing, science, and publishing. This Editorial discusses how and why articles are selected for language correction, the behind-the-scenes process in the editorial office, and why certain phrases and terms are corrected and others not. We hope that this explanation will help clarify both the purpose and the process of language editing and also describe how the authors can help make the submission of articles smoother and more rapid.