I frequently get asked to explain the difference between copyright, copy editing, copy writing and ghostwriting.

Copyright is the exclusive right authors and artists have to prevent others from copying their work. To further confuse things, copyright has two parts: moral and economic copyright. The economic part of copyright can be sold or transferred to others; however the author retains what is called moral copyright, which means that no one, not even the new owner of the copyright, can distort or modify the work in a way that is prejudicial to the author’s honor or reputation.  You cannot sell moral rights, but you can waive them.  For more information on copyright visit the Canadian Intellectual Property Office’s Guide to Copyright.

Copy editing involves reviewing a draft manuscript for errors in spelling, punctuation and grammar. It also includes correcting any inconsistencies in typesetting as well as ensuring that text flows well and is not repetitious. In instances where multiple authors are involved, copy editing will remove variances in writing to present a consistent style.

Copy writing (also known as ghostwriting) is where a manuscript is prepared based on the ideas and information provided by the client according to the required style (i.e., journal article, grant application, business plan).

When manuscripts are commissioned for copy or ghostwriting, the copyright in all customized content is transferred to the client.  Harms & Company Consulting retains the right to reuse authored materials and templates that are of a generic or reusable nature and do not include the client’s proprietary information.