How to use AI tools ethically when editing or proofreading

How to use AI tools ethically when editing or proofreading

Author: Louise Harnby (fiction editor) and Denise Cowle (non-fiction editor) February 26, 2026 Duration: 11:46

Learn about how to use AI tools ethically when editing or proofreading.

Listen to find out more about

  1. What do we mean by 'AI tools' in editing?
  2. The ethical questions
  3. Protecting client confidentiality
  4. Being transparent with clients
  5. Accountability
  6. Respecting authorship
  7. Staying informed and critical
  8. Real-world scenarios
  9. The editor's role in shaping AI ethics
  10. AI Use and Ethics Checklist (free resource): https://www.louiseharnbyproofreader.com/ai.html

Book series: Notes from the Podcast

Want to hone your editorial business skills? Our actionable guides and workbooks help you plan and implement a programme for business growth and development.

Find out more here: https://www.louiseharnbyproofreader.com/notes.html

Support The Editing Podcast

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  1. theeditingpodcast.captivate.fm/support

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  1. patreon.com/editingpodcast

Denise and Louise

  1. Denise Cowle: denisecowleeditorial.com
  2. Louise Harnby: harnby.co/fiction-editing

Post-production

  1. Liv Cowle: livcowle.com

Music credit

'Vivacity’ by Kevin MacLeod

  1. Link: https://filmmusic.io/song/4593-vivacity
  2. Licence: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/


Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of a professional editor's desk? The Editing Podcast pulls back the curtain, offering a genuine and practical look at the craft and business of editing. Hosts Louise Harnby, a fiction editor, and Denise Cowle, who specializes in non-fiction, bring their distinct perspectives to every conversation. They don't just talk about theory; they delve into the real-world challenges editors face, from tricky grammatical choices and style guide dilemmas to the nuts and bolts of running a successful freelance business. Each episode feels like a chat with knowledgeable colleagues who are generous with their hard-won advice. You'll hear specific strategies for improving your technical skills, whether you're working on novels or academic texts, alongside frank discussions about client communication, pricing, and sustainable workflows. This podcast is a trusted resource for both newcomers finding their footing and seasoned professionals looking to refine their practice. Tune in for relatable stories, actionable solutions, and the reassurance that comes from two experts who have been there, making the often solitary work of editing feel a lot more connected.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Editing Podcast
Podcast Episodes
7 tips for compelling titles to captivate your audience [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 9:01
Learn how to create engaging titles for conference sessions, blog and podcast headings and email marketing subject lines.Listen to find out more aboutBeing specificUsing numbersBeing short and snappyChoosing verbs wisely…
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Discover how to use a marketing buddy to conquer overwhelm and get your editing and proofreading business promotion moving.Listen to find out more aboutSharing the problem of marketing inertiaWhy feeling nervous about ma…
Human vs AI: How editors and proofreaders can remain relevant [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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How can human editors and proofreaders remain relevant when AI capability is improving exponentially? Listen to find out more about:Emotional intelligence and sensitivityThe ability to be subjectiveFocusing on the writer…
A checklist for proofreading designed page proofs [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 20:48
Learn about what to check when proofreading page proofs prior to publication.Listen to find out more aboutWhat designed page proofs areWhat to check in the prelimsWhat to check in the main textWhat to check in the end ma…
Fiction lingo: 5 character roles and their purpose [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:05
Find out about 5 core character roles within a novel, and how the purpose they serve ensures the story stays focused.Listen to find out more about:5 key character roles in fictionThe character role hierarchyWhy protagoni…
Should editors offer free discovery calls? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Should editors offer free discovery calls? Our three-step discovery process will help you deliver the process effectively.Listen to find out more aboutWhat a discovery call isBenefits of discovery callsTime and money con…
Editing and proofreading ELT materials [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:39
Louise Harnby and Denise Cowle chat about editing and proofreading ELT materials. Listen to find out more about:What is ELT?Who does this work?How does an editor work?What's different about ELT editing?How are the materi…
Scene technique: With Lisa Poisso [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:46
Learn about scene technique with our special guest, editor, book coach and story consultant Lisa Poisso. A must-listen for editors and authors alike.Listen to find out more aboutWhat is a scene in a novel?Why are scenes…
How are opportunity costs affecting your editing business? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:18
Louise Harnby and Denise Cowle chat about opportunity cost, and why editors and proofreaders need to keep an eye on this part of their business. Listen to find out more about:What opportunity cost isAn opportunity cost m…