Follow a repeatable, end-to-end framework for substantive edits.
Learn a six-step approach that moves from defining the level of edit and audience through structure, narrative, language, and final review, so large, complex documents stay coherent and purposeful.
Tackle big documents without getting overwhelmed.
Use macro-to-micro strategies, section-by-section editing, and structural audits to manage long, multi-author reports and improve flow, transitions, and readability at scale.
Strengthen clarity, tone, and impact at the sentence level.
Learn how to revise hedging language, passive voice, nominalizations, and overlong sentences while keeping the audience, intent, and technical accuracy front and center.
About the webinar
Substantive editing is a critical part of shaping clear, effective content, but it can feel overwhelming when a document needs more than surface-level fixes. In this prerecorded webinar, originally presented live, Emily Primeaux walks through a practical, six-step approach to substantive editing, using real-world examples to show how editors can assess scope, refine structure, strengthen narrative flow, and edit language with purpose. You’ll see how big-picture decisions and sentence-level changes work together, and you’ll leave with a repeatable framework you can apply to complex documents so your edits improve clarity without losing intent.
Emily Primeaux
Emily Primeaux is a writer and editor with experience across website content, magazine production, marketing communications, and thought leadership in highly regulated and technical subject areas. She has worked extensively with subject-matter experts and edited complex, high-stakes content with a focus on clarity, structure, and audience needs. As chief content officer at Dragonfly Editorial, Emily leads the company’s content vision and strategy.
What people are saying
Here’s what people who attended the webinar live had to say about the session.
Emily did a great job explaining what substantive editing is and her process for doing it. I always find it helpful to learn other editors' processes.
Emily did a great job providing instruction and demonstrating how to do a substantive edit. The content is useful both for my full-time job and my freelance editing.
Ready to tackle substantive edits?
Watch the full recording and learn a six-step framework for handling substantive edits at any scale.
$49.00