World of editing, proofreading, and publishing, professionals often rely on special marks and Latin words to communicate efficiently. One such powerful yet often misunderstood word is “stet.” Despite its small size, it carries a big message in the editorial process.This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about stet — what it means, where it comes from, how it’s used, why it remains important in digital editing, and how writers and editors can apply it effectively.
What Does “Stet” Mean?
The word stet is derived from Latin, meaning “let it stand.”In editing, it serves as a command to ignore or reverse a previous correction. When a proofreader or editor marks a section for change, but later decides the original text should remain, they write “stet” beside the correction. It tells everyone involved — the writer, typesetter, or production team — to keep the original version of the text.For example, if an editor crosses out a word but later realizes that the deletion was a mistake, they would write “stet” in the margin to signal that the original word should stay.
The Origin of “Stet”
Latin Roots
“Stet” comes from the Latin verb stare, meaning “to stand.” The form stet translates to “let it stand.” It has been used for centuries by editors, printers, and proofreaders as a simple yet powerful instruction.
Traditional Proofreading
Before digital editing tools existed, editing was done by hand on printed manuscripts. Editors would mark corrections in red or blue pencil. If they changed their mind about a correction, they would write “stet” in the margin and place a series of dots under the affected text to indicate that it should remain unchanged.This system of proofreading marks became standardized in publishing houses, ensuring clarity among editors, authors, and typesetters.
Why “Stet” Still Matters Today
Even in the age of computers and track changes, “stet” continues to serve a valuable purpose in editorial communication. Here’s why it remains relevant:
Precision in Editorial Instructions
“Stet” gives a clear, unambiguous instruction: do not change the text. In collaborative editing, especially when multiple editors or proofreaders work on the same document, this clarity prevents accidental alterations and maintains consistency.
Preserving Authorial Voice
Authors often write with a specific tone, rhythm, or dialect. Editors may suggest changes for grammar or clarity that unintentionally alter the writer’s voice. When the author reviews those edits and feels that the original expression better reflects their intent, they can mark “stet.”This allows the author to retain their unique style and artistic integrity without rejecting feedback outright.
Efficient Workflow
In large editing projects, erasing or undoing previous marks can cause confusion. Instead of removing the edit completely, marking “stet” shows that the change was considered and consciously dismissed. This helps the production team or copy editor know which corrections to implement and which to ignore.
Accountability in Editing
Every “stet” mark documents a decision. It shows that a specific edit was reviewed and intentionally overridden. This transparency is useful in professional publishing, where multiple people review the same text and where editorial accountability is critical.
When to Use “Stet”
Appropriate Uses
- When a suggested edit changes the writer’s intended meaning or tone.
- When an editor marks something for deletion but later decides it improves the flow.
- When a correction introduces an error or removes necessary context.
- When an author reviews an editor’s changes and chooses to keep the original phrasing.
Use with Caution
- Do not use “stet” just to reject every edit. It should be used thoughtfully and selectively.
- Never “stet” factual or typographical errors unless they are intentional (for example, a character’s deliberate misspelling in dialogue).
- Overusing “stet” can create friction between writers and editors — communication and explanation are key.
How to Mark “Stet” Properly
Using “stet” correctly ensures that everyone in the editing process understands your intention.
Traditional (Printed) Method
- Cross out or change the text as usual.
- When you decide to keep the original, write “stet” in the margin next to the correction.
- Place a row of dots under the affected words or phrases to clarify which part of the text the “stet” applies to.
Digital Editing
In tools like Microsoft Word or Google Docs, where changes are tracked automatically:
- Highlight the suggested change.
- Add a comment that says “stet” — meaning “please keep the original.”
- Optionally, explain why: for example, “Authorial voice – please stet.”
This method keeps the collaboration transparent while preserving the historical function of the term.
Examples of “Stet” in Action
Example 1: Grammar and Style
Edited version:
The committee have reached a decision.
Editor’s correction:
The committee has reached a decision.
Author’s decision:
The author may choose to “stet” the original because the plural verb “have” reflects British English usage.
Final instruction:
STET — maintain original.
Example 2: Character Dialogue
Original:
“Ain’t no way I’m goin’ back there.”
Editor’s suggestion:
“There’s no way I’m going back there.”
Author’s decision:
The change removes the character’s dialect and personality. The author writes “stet” to retain authenticity.
Example 3: Formatting
If a proofreader mistakenly deletes an italicized book title but the author intended italics, the editor can mark “stet” to restore the original formatting.
Common Misunderstandings About “Stet
| Misconception | Reality |
|---|---|
| “Stet” means delete the text. | False — it means keep the text as it is. |
| Only traditional editors use “stet.” | It’s still widely used in both print and digital editing. |
| “Stet” means the text is perfect. | Not necessarily — it just means the original is preferable to the change. |
| You can “stet” every edit. | Overusing it defeats its purpose and weakens collaboration. |
Benefits of Using “Stet”
For Writers
- Protects your voice: Keeps your style and tone intact.
- Promotes collaboration: You can discuss changes without confrontation.
- Saves time: Quickly signals which edits should be undone.
For Editors
- Enhances communication: “Stet” provides a universal signal for “revert this change.”
- Avoids confusion: Maintains a clear editing trail.
- Improves efficiency: No need to erase or delete previous notes — just mark “stet.”
For Publishers and Proofreaders
- Streamlines production: Typesetters know exactly what to include.
- Reduces errors: Avoids accidental implementation of unwanted edits.
- Creates transparency: Shows which decisions were reviewed and finalized.
“Stet” in the Digital Age
Though most editing is now done digitally, the concept of “stet” has not disappeared — it has simply evolved.
In Word, Google Docs, or similar platforms:
- Use the Comment feature to add “STET” beside any change.
- Clearly state whether the instruction applies to spelling, grammar, or phrasing.
- During the final review, confirm that the “stet” notes were correctly implemented.
Some editors even use digital stamps or custom styles in PDF annotations to make “stet” visible to designers and production teams.
In short, while the medium has changed, the message remains timeless: “Let it stand.”
Best Practices for Using “Stet”
- Be intentional. Use “stet” only when the original truly serves a purpose.
- Provide context. Add a brief explanation if others will review the file later.
- Stay consistent. Use the same method across all documents.
- Communicate clearly. Discuss recurring “stet” marks with your editor or author to ensure alignment.
- Review the final proof. Confirm that “stet” notes were properly applied before publication.
- Educate your team. Make sure everyone involved in editing understands what “stet” means.
Why “Stet” Reflects Good Editing Judgment
Good editing is not just about correcting errors — it’s about making thoughtful decisions.
Sometimes, leaving something as it is communicates the writer’s intention more effectively than any grammatical adjustment. “Stet” embodies that balance between precision and creativity.
It reminds editors and authors alike that editing isn’t about perfection — it’s about clarity, purpose, and respect for voice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “stet” mean in editing?
In editing and proofreading, “stet” is a Latin term meaning “let it stand.” It’s used to indicate that a previously suggested change or correction should be ignored and that the original text should remain unchanged.
When should I use “stet” in a manuscript or document?
Use “stet” when you or your editor decide that the original text is better than the edited version. It’s commonly used to preserve tone, style, or authorial voice when a correction would unintentionally change the intended meaning.
How do you mark “stet” in a digital document?
In digital editing tools like Microsoft Word or Google Docs, you can highlight the edited portion and leave a comment that says “STET” to show that the text should stay as originally written. Some editors also include a short explanation such as “authorial style – stet.”
What’s the difference between “stet” and “delete”?
“Delete” instructs the editor or typesetter to remove text, while “stet” means to keep it. In fact, “stet” often appears after something has been marked for deletion, telling the editor to disregard the previous correction.
Is “stet” still used in modern editing?
Yes. Although editing has largely moved online, “stet” remains widely used. Editors, proofreaders, and authors still use it in comment bubbles, tracked changes, or digital proofs to reverse unnecessary edits and maintain clarity in the workflow.
Conclusion
Editorial command “stet” may be short, but its meaning is profound. It bridges the gap between correction and creativity, between precision and personality. Rooted in centuries of publishing tradition, “stet” remains a crucial tool for professional editors, proofreaders, and authors alike.Whether written in the margin of a printed proof or typed in a digital comment, its message is clear and timeless:“Let it stand.”By understanding and using “stet” correctly, you can enhance collaboration, protect authorial integrity, and ensure a smoother, more efficient editing process.
