Edit

Edit is the act of making changes to content to improve quality, accuracy, or clarity. In general use, an edit is a change; the edited material is the revised version produced by the change, such as the next edition of a manuscript or a post after revision. The verb to edit covers removing, adding, or rearranging material, correcting errors, and adjusting style, tone, or structure. The word edit derives from Latin editus, "brought forth," via Old French éditer, meaning to publish or produce.

In writing and publishing, editing encompasses multiple stages: substantive edits to structure and argument; line edits to phrasing and flow; copy edits to grammar, spelling, and consistency; and proofreading to catch remaining errors. Editors work with authors to meet standards, deadlines, and audience needs; style guides often determine conventions.

In film, video, and audio, editing is the process of selecting and arranging material to create a coherent product. An editor shapes pacing, rhythm, and continuity, works with the director, and may assemble rough cuts into final versions using transitions, cuts, and sound design.

In computing and digital media, editing commonly refers to using software to alter text or media. A text editor or code editor provides tools for creating and modifying content, while image, video, and audio editors perform media-specific changes. Digital editing often includes features like undo, version history, autosave, and collaboration through revision controls.