The introduction to this part of the book briefly describes the state of play in Australia when I entered the profession of book editing in 1989. Although there was much discussion among members of the local society of editors about the role of the editor as “gatekeeper”, to my knowledge few publicly discussed social injustice as a lived experience. But as a fledgling editor, the dawning of understanding about what that editorial gatekeeper role meant virtually gave me wings! I soon realised that if I could establish myself as an editor in good standing I would have the power to influence virtually every single reader of the books I was editing, including their authors. That was a powerful moment. I had never before in my life felt as though I held any real power – in any sphere.

Editing requires a degree of accuracy and precision, but not only that. It also requires an equal degree of comfort with ambiguity and uncertainty. In this guide I am seeking to influence your editorial deliberations and decision-making processes with all of this in mind.

As you consider the definitions and recommendations offered, you will need to weigh your editorial approach and decisions in light of:

1. 1. Personal context – your experiences, worldview and the type of editor you are or wish to be

2. 2. Societal context – our world is in constant flux, especially the ways in which we communicate, so always keep in mind that things may have changed since the publication of this guide. You will need to maintain your vigilance on usage, read widely and continue to think deeply about the potential and actual effects of change on how audiences might interpret a given text

3. 3. The brief – consider what is said and not said, and how you can meet the needs of your author, client/employer as well as the intended reading audience for the work you are editing

4. 4. Advice and recommendations from professional, industry and technical experts, beta-readers, reviewers and communities of practice that apply to the work you are editing.