Modular methodology

The Levels of Edit is a structured approach to editing that has been tested and refined by generations of editors. Developed at Jet Propulsion Laboratory shortly after the first moon landing, this flexible structure takes the guesswork out of project management, enabling authors to select exactly the type of edit that meets their specific needs.

Edit categories

The Levels of Edit defines nine categories, called edit types, which it configures into five cumulative edit levels.

For details, see Edit types and levels.

Service Modules

Based on The Levels of Edit, we offer five standard service modules configured for your particular project:

• Proof

• Language Edit

• Style Edit

• Usability Edit

• Substantive Edit

In addition, we offer modular indexing services and standardization services:

• Document indexes

• Master indexes

• Single-source indexes

• Style guides

• Master glossaries

For details, see Services.

Experienced editor

For over 25 years, Kurt Ament has edited technical publications for leading companies in science and industry, such as European XFEL, HP, Symantec, and Xerox. In addition, he has developed numerous style guides, document templates, electronic forms, master glossaries, and master indexes. He is a former student of Mary Fran Buehler, co-author of The Levels of Edit.

RECENT PROJECTS

• Automated publication database

• Automated publication lists

• Document management system

• LaTeX development platform

• LaTeX report template

BOOKS

• Dysfunctional Documents: A 12-Step Recovery Program for User Documentation

• Indexing: A Nuts-and-Bolts Guide for Technical Writers

• Single Sourcing: Building Modular Documentation

AFFILIATIONS

• Gesellschaft für Technische Kommunikation (tekom)

• Society for Technical Communication (STC)

EDUCATION

• University of California at Los Angeles
  Certificate in Technical Communication

• University of California at Berkeley
  BA in History with Honors