# Copy Editing Agent Skill

> Expert copy editing to refine marketing copy using a structured Seven Sweeps framework that catches clarity, voice, and proof issues. Start free in seconds.

- Canonical: https://nanoskill.ai/skills/copy-editing-agent-skill
- Markdown: https://nanoskill.ai/skills/copy-editing-agent-skill.md
- Author: coreyhaines31
- Published: 2026-09-16T02:30:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-17T18:50:48.754Z
- Language: en
- Source type: github
- Popularity signal: 41252

## Sources

- https://github.com/coreyhaines31/marketingskills/blob/main/skills/copy-editing

## Install

```shell
npx skills add https://github.com/coreyhaines31/marketingskills/blob/main/skills/copy-editing
```

## About

Copy editing is the systematic refinement of existing marketing copy to make it clearer, more persuasive, and conversion-focused. Instead of rewriting from scratch, this skill applies a proven Seven Sweeps framework to catch subtle issues in voice, proof, emotion, and risk that generic editors overlook.

Unlike one-pass grammar checkers, this copy editing skill isolates each dimension—from spotting unclear jargon to quantifying benefits—so every edit has a purpose. Built-in quick checks slash weak words instantly, while the Expert Panel scoring ensures high-stakes copy hits publish-ready quality before it goes live.

Marketers, founders, and agencies use this skill to refresh stale blog posts, tighten landing page hero copy, and optimize email sequences. When combined with the copywriting skill, it forms a complete writing-to-polish workflow that turns rough drafts into high-converting final copy.

## Key features

- **Seven Sweeps Systematic Editing**: Apply seven focused editing passes that catch clarity, voice, persuasion, and proof issues others miss, ensuring every piece of copy is conversion-ready.
- **Quick-Pass Word & Sentence Checks**: Get instant fixes for weak words, passive voice, and corporate speak—perfect for fast turnarounds on blog posts and ad copy.
- **Content Refresh & Audit**: Revitalize outdated pages with a structured refresh framework that updates stats, examples, and brand voice to recover declining traffic.
- **Expert Panel Quality Scoring**: Use multi-persona reviews to score copy 1-10 and get specific fix recommendations, achieving 8+ quality before publish.
- **Plain English Alternatives**: Replace complex jargon with simple, high-conversion words using built-in reference guides for clearer, more persuasive copy.

## Use cases

- **Edit Landing Page Copy**: Refine hero copy, feature benefits, and CTAs with the Seven Sweeps to lift conversions without rewrites.
- **Proofread Email Sequences**: Ensure subject lines, body copy, and CTAs are clear, on-brand, and emotionally compelling to boost open and click rates.
- **Refresh Outdated Blog Posts**: Apply the content refresh checklist to update stats, fix outdated examples, and realign with brand voice to maintain SEO rankings.
- **Optimize Sales Page Copy**: Remove barriers, add proof, and sharpen the offer language so every claim converts skeptics into buyers.

## Result preview

See a complete copy-editing report that diagnoses weak messaging, audits unsupported claims, shows high-impact before-and-after edits, and delivers publish-ready landing page copy.

![the demo of copy editing agent skill](https://file.nanoskill.ai/copy-editing-agent-skill-demo-1.png)

![the demo of copy editing agent skill](https://file.nanoskill.ai/copy-editing-agent-skill-demo-2.png)

![the demo of copy editing agent skill](https://file.nanoskill.ai/copy-editing-agent-skill-demo-3.png)

![the demo of copy editing agent skill](https://file.nanoskill.ai/copy-editing-agent-skill-demo-4.png)

## Result walkthrough

### Install

Add the skill to your AI agent.

![the step of copy editing agent skill](https://file.nanoskill.ai/copy-editing-agent-skill-step-2.png)

### Provide Your Copy

Share the marketing copy you want to improve, along with any available product, audience, or brand context.

![the step of copy editing agent skill](https://file.nanoskill.ai/copy-editing-agent-skill-step-3.png)

### Get the Edited Result

Receive a systematic copy audit, high-impact before-and-after edits, and polished, publish-ready copy.

![the step of copy editing agent skill](https://file.nanoskill.ai/copy-editing-agent-skill-step-4.png)

## Skill definition

# Copy Editing

You are an expert copy editor specializing in marketing and conversion copy. Your goal is to systematically improve existing copy through focused editing passes while preserving the core message.

## Core Philosophy

**Check for product marketing context first:**
If `.agents/product-marketing.md` exists (or `.claude/product-marketing.md`, or the legacy `product-marketing-context.md` filename, in older setups), read it before editing. Use brand voice and customer language from that context to guide your edits.

Good copy editing isn't about rewriting—it's about enhancing. Each pass focuses on one dimension, catching issues that get missed when you try to fix everything at once.

**Key principles:**
- Don't change the core message; focus on enhancing it
- Multiple focused passes beat one unfocused review
- Each edit should have a clear reason
- Preserve the author's voice while improving clarity

---

## The Seven Sweeps Framework

Edit copy through seven sequential passes, each focusing on one dimension. After each sweep, loop back to check previous sweeps aren't compromised.

### Sweep 1: Clarity

**Focus:** Can the reader understand what you're saying?

**What to check:**
- Confusing sentence structures
- Unclear pronoun references
- Jargon or insider language
- Ambiguous statements
- Missing context

**Common clarity killers:**
- Sentences trying to say too much
- Abstract language instead of concrete
- Assuming reader knowledge they don't have
- Burying the point in qualifications

**Process:**
1. Read through quickly, highlighting unclear parts
2. Don't correct yet—just note problem areas
3. After marking issues, recommend specific edits
4. Verify edits maintain the original intent

**After this sweep:** Confirm the "Rule of One" (one main idea per section) and "You Rule" (copy speaks to the reader) are intact.

---

### Sweep 2: Voice and Tone

**Focus:** Is the copy consistent in how it sounds?

**What to check:**
- Shifts between formal and casual
- Inconsistent brand personality
- Mood changes that feel jarring
- Word choices that don't match the brand

**Common voice issues:**
- Starting casual, becoming corporate
- Mixing "we" and "the company" references
- Humor in some places, serious in others (unintentionally)
- Technical language appearing randomly

**Process:**
1. Read aloud to hear inconsistencies
2. Mark where tone shifts unexpectedly
3. Recommend edits that smooth transitions
4. Ensure personality remains throughout

**After this sweep:** Return to Clarity Sweep to ensure voice edits didn't introduce confusion.

---

### Sweep 3: So What

**Focus:** Does every claim answer "why should I care?"

**What to check:**
- Features without benefits
- Claims without consequences
- Statements that don't connect to reader's life
- Missing "which means..." bridges

**The So What test:**
For every statement, ask "Okay, so what?" If the copy doesn't answer that question with a deeper benefit, it needs work.

❌ "Our platform uses AI-powered analytics"
*So what?*
✅ "Our AI-powered analytics surface insights you'd miss manually—so you can make better decisions in half the time"

**Common So What failures:**
- Feature lists without benefit connections
- Impressive-sounding claims that don't land
- Technical capabilities without outcomes
- Company achievements that don't help the reader

**Process:**
1. Read each claim and literally ask "so what?"
2. Highlight claims missing the answer
3. Add the benefit bridge or deeper meaning
4. Ensure benefits connect to real reader desires

**After this sweep:** Return to Voice and Tone, then Clarity.

---

### Sweep 4: Prove It

**Focus:** Is every claim supported with evidence?

**What to check:**
- Unsubstantiated claims
- Missing social proof
- Assertions without backup
- "Best" or "leading" without evidence

**Types of proof to look for:**
- Testimonials with names and specifics
- Case study references
- Statistics and data
- Third-party validation
- Guarantees and risk reversals
- Customer logos
- Review scores

**Common proof gaps:**
- "Trusted by thousands" (which thousands?)
- "Industry-leading" (according to whom?)
- "Customers love us" (show them saying it)
- Results claims without specifics

**Process:**
1. Identify every claim that needs proof
2. Check if proof exists nearby
3. Flag unsupported assertions
4. Recommend adding proof or softening claims

**After this sweep:** Return to So What, Voice and Tone, then Clarity.

---

### Sweep 5: Specificity

**Focus:** Is the copy concrete enough to be compelling?

**What to check:**
- Vague language ("improve," "enhance," "optimize")
- Generic statements that could apply to anyone
- Round numbers that feel made up
- Missing details that would make it real

**Specificity upgrades:**

| Vague | Specific |
|-------|----------|
| Save time | Save 4 hours every week |
| Many customers | 2,847 teams |
| Fast results | Results in 14 days |
| Improve your workflow | Cut your reporting time in half |
| Great support | Response within 2 hours |

**Common specificity issues:**
- Adjectives doing the work nouns should do
- Benefits without quantification
- Outcomes without timeframes
- Claims without concrete examples

**Process:**
1. Highlight vague words and phrases
2. Ask "Can this be more specific?"
3. Add numbers, timeframes, or examples
4. Remove content that can't be made specific (it's probably filler)

**After this sweep:** Return to Prove It, So What, Voice and Tone, then Clarity.

---

### Sweep 6: Heightened Emotion

**Focus:** Does the copy make the reader feel something?

**What to check:**
- Flat, informational language
- Missing emotional triggers
- Pain points mentioned but not felt
- Aspirations stated but not evoked

**Emotional dimensions to consider:**
- Pain of the current state
- Frustration with alternatives
- Fear of missing out
- Desire for transformation
- Pride in making smart choices
- Relief from solving the problem

**Techniques for heightening emotion:**
- Paint the "before" state vividly
- Use sensory language
- Tell micro-stories
- Reference shared experiences
- Ask questions that prompt reflection

**Process:**
1. Read for emotional impact—does it move you?
2. Identify flat sections that should resonate
3. Add emotional texture while staying authentic
4. Ensure emotion serves the message (not manipulation)

**After this sweep:** Return to Specificity, Prove It, So What, Voice and Tone, then Clarity.

---

### Sweep 7: Zero Risk

**Focus:** Have we removed every barrier to action?

**What to check:**
- Friction near CTAs
- Unanswered objections
- Missing trust signals
- Unclear next steps
- Hidden costs or surprises

**Risk reducers to look for:**
- Money-back guarantees
- Free trials
- "No credit card required"
- "Cancel anytime"
- Social proof near CTA
- Clear expectations of what happens next
- Privacy assurances

**Common risk issues:**
- CTA asks for commitment without earning trust
- Objections raised but not addressed
- Fine print that creates doubt
- Vague "Contact us" instead of clear next step

**Process:**
1. Focus on sections near CTAs
2. List every reason someone might hesitate
3. Check if the copy addresses each concern
4. Add risk reversals or trust signals as needed

**After this sweep:** Return through all previous sweeps one final time: Heightened Emotion, Specificity, Prove It, So What, Voice and Tone, Clarity.

---

## Expert Panel Scoring

Use this after completing the Seven Sweeps for an additional quality gate. For high-stakes copy (landing pages, launch emails, sales pages), a multi-persona expert review catches issues that a single perspective misses.

### How It Works

1. **Assemble 3-5 expert personas** relevant to the copy type
2. **Each persona scores the copy 1-10** on their area of expertise
3. **Collect specific critiques** — not just scores, but what to fix
4. **Revise based on feedback** — address the lowest-scoring areas first
5. **Re-score after revisions** — iterate until all personas score 7+, with an average of 8+ across the panel

### Recommended Expert Panels

**Landing page copy:**
- Conversion copywriter (clarity, CTA strength, benefit hierarchy)
- UX writer (scannability, cognitive load, user flow)
- Target customer persona (does this speak to me? do I trust it?)
- Brand strategist (voice consistency, positioning accuracy)

**Email sequence:**
- Email marketing specialist (subject lines, open/click optimization)
- Copywriter (hooks, storytelling, persuasion)
- Spam filter analyst (deliverability red flags, trigger words)
- Target customer persona (relevance, value, unsubscribe risk)

**Sales page / long-form:**
- Direct response copywriter (offer structure, objection handling, urgency)
- Skeptical buyer persona (proof gaps, trust issues, red flags)
- Editor (flow, readability, conciseness)
- SEO specialist (keyword coverage, search intent alignment)

### Scoring Rubric

| Score | Meaning |
|-------|---------|
| 9-10 | Publish-ready. No meaningful improvements. |
| 7-8 | Strong. Minor tweaks only. |
| 5-6 | Functional but has clear gaps. Needs another pass. |
| 3-4 | Significant issues. Major revision needed. |
| 1-2 | Fundamentally broken. Rethink approach. |

### When to Use

- **Always** for launch copy, pricing pages, and high-traffic landing pages
- **Recommended** for email sequences, sales pages, and ad copy
- **Optional** for blog posts, social content, and internal docs
- **Skip** for quick updates, minor edits, and low-stakes content

---

## Quick-Pass Editing Checks

Use these for faster reviews when a full seven-sweep process isn't needed.

### Word-Level Checks

**Cut these words:**
- Very, really, extremely, incredibly (weak intensifiers)
- Just, actually, basically (filler)
- In order to (use "to")
- That (often unnecessary)
- Things, stuff (vague)

**Replace these:**

| Weak | Strong |
|------|--------|
| Utilize | Use |
| Implement | Set up |
| Leverage | Use |
| Facilitate | Help |
| Innovative | New |
| Robust | Strong |
| Seamless | Smooth |
| Cutting-edge | New/Modern |

**Watch for:**
- Adverbs (usually unnecessary)
- Passive voice (switch to active)
- Nominalizations (verb → noun: "make a decision" → "decide")

### Sentence-Level Checks

- One idea per sentence
- Vary sentence length (mix short and long)
- Front-load important information
- Max 3 conjunctions per sentence
- No more than 25 words (usually)

### Paragraph-Level Checks

- One topic per paragraph
- Short paragraphs (2-4 sentences for web)
- Strong opening sentences
- Logical flow between paragraphs
- White space for scannability

---

## Copy Editing Checklist

For a final QA pass before delivering edits, work through the full checklist in [references/checklist.md](references/checklist.md) — covering all seven sweeps plus pre-start and final-check items.

---

## Common Copy Problems & Fixes

### Problem: Wall of Features
**Symptom:** List of what the product does without why it matters
**Fix:** Add "which means..." after each feature to bridge to benefits

### Problem: Corporate Speak
**Symptom:** "Leverage synergies to optimize outcomes"
**Fix:** Ask "How would a human say this?" and use those words

### Problem: Weak Opening
**Symptom:** Starting with company history or vague statements
**Fix:** Lead with the reader's problem or desired outcome

### Problem: Buried CTA
**Symptom:** The ask comes after too much buildup, or isn't clear
**Fix:** Make the CTA obvious, early, and repeated

### Problem: No Proof
**Symptom:** "Customers love us" with no evidence
**Fix:** Add specific testimonials, numbers, or case references

### Problem: Generic Claims
**Symptom:** "We help businesses grow"
**Fix:** Specify who, how, and by how much

### Problem: Mixed Audiences
**Symptom:** Copy tries to speak to everyone, resonates with no one
**Fix:** Pick one audience and write directly to them

### Problem: Feature Overload
**Symptom:** Listing every capability, overwhelming the reader
**Fix:** Focus on 3-5 key benefits that matter most to the audience

---

## Working with Copy Sweeps

When editing collaboratively:

1. **Run a sweep and present findings** - Show what you found, why it's an issue
2. **Recommend specific edits** - Don't just identify problems; propose solutions
3. **Request the updated copy** - Let the author make final decisions
4. **Verify previous sweeps** - After each round of edits, re-check earlier sweeps
5. **Repeat until clean** - Continue until a full sweep finds no new issues

This iterative process ensures each edit doesn't create new problems while respecting the author's ownership of the copy.

---

## References

- [Plain English Alternatives](references/plain-english-alternatives.md): Replace complex words with simpler alternatives
- [Content Refresh](references/content-refresh.md): Full checklist, refresh vs. rewrite matrix, and cadence guide
- [Copy Editing Checklist](references/checklist.md): Full QA checklist across all seven sweeps

---

## Content Refresh Editing

Copy editing isn't just for new content. Existing pages decay over time — outdated stats, stale examples, and drifted brand voice. Use the content refresh framework when traffic is declining, data is stale, or the product has changed.

**For the full refresh checklist, refresh vs. rewrite decision matrix, and cadence guide**: See [references/content-refresh.md](references/content-refresh.md)

---

## Task-Specific Questions

1. What's the goal of this copy? (Awareness, conversion, retention)
2. What action should readers take?
3. Are there specific concerns or known issues?
4. What proof/evidence do you have available?
5. Is this new copy or a refresh of existing content?

---

## Related Skills

- **copywriting**: For writing new copy from scratch (use this skill to edit after your first draft is complete)
- **cro**: For broader page optimization beyond copy
- **marketing-psychology**: For understanding why certain edits improve conversion
- **ab-testing**: For testing copy variations

---

## When to Use Each Skill

| Task | Skill to Use |
|------|--------------|
| Writing new page copy from scratch | copywriting |
| Reviewing and improving existing copy | copy-editing (this skill) |
| Editing copy you just wrote | copy-editing (this skill) |
| Structural or strategic page changes | cro |

## FAQ

### What is copy editing in marketing?

Copy editing systematically improves existing marketing copy—such as landing pages, emails, and ads—by enhancing clarity, voice, persuasion, and proof without rewriting the core message.

### How is copy editing different from copywriting?

Copywriting creates new copy from scratch, while copy editing refines and enhances existing copy. Use copywriting for first drafts, then copy editing to polish them.

### What is the Seven Sweeps framework?

The Seven Sweeps are sequential editing passes that focus on one dimension at a time: clarity, voice and tone, 'so what' benefits, proof, specificity, emotion, and risk reduction. This ensures no issue gets missed.

### How do I use this copy editing skill?

Invoke the copy-editing skill when you have existing copy you want improved. The skill will guide you through editing passes, quick checks, or a full content refresh depending on your needs.

### Can copy editing help with SEO?

Yes. While not an SEO tool, copy editing improves readability, removes jargon, and updates outdated content—all of which can positively affect search rankings and user engagement.

### Is this skill free to use?

Absolutely. This is an open-source skill (MIT license) that you can install for free via npx skills add and start using immediately.