Exemplary science can’t be impactful unless it’s well communicated. After I helped the scientist quoted above polish her research manuscript, her work could be better appreciated not only by scientific journal editors and reviewers but also by members of the press. When her manuscript was published, the findings it contained were covered by the Associated Press and over a dozen media outlets, ranging from local broadcast news to Smithsonian Magazine and Fortune.

For me, editing isn’t just about making sure grammar is correct, styles are consistent, and text flows well (although these are important!). It’s also about making sure an argument is logical, the reader doesn’t have to work to grasp it, and the writing is as easy to read as possible (and even enjoyable!). A keen attention to detail and first-hand experience in science helps.