Editing is a crucial skill that's often overlooked and under-appreciated. The best editors serve as proxies for readers, providing strong opinions and helping writers refine their ideas. Editing is not just about correcting punctuation, but also about challenging opinions and adding clarity to writing. It requires a partnership between writer and editor, with the editor serving as a proxy for the reader's needs and preferences. Good editing involves taking away unnecessary words and focusing on communication, rather than trying to add or change the author's ideas. There are different types of editing, including copy editing, which can be focused on style and tone, and structural editing, which focuses on organization and flow. A solid editorial process with a willingness to challenge writers' opinions can lead to improved writing and a better reader experience.