A “working copy” can be defined as a manuscript or document undergoing editing, revision, or review by an author, an editor, or a publishing house in the book and publishing industry. It is a work-in-progress version of the book that is not yet published.
When a book is done, its first draft is usually sent to an editor or a team of editors. The editor starts the revision process by modifying the content to make it clear and coherent and to enhance its quality. The author goes back to the manuscript and makes revisions until the manuscript is ready for publication, working back and forth until the working copy is returned.
This phase may entail some significant changes in the working copy. Editors may offer alternative approaches to organizing the content, changing the language, or pointing out mistakes regarding facts or grammar. The working copy is used to edit the book, perfecting it to make it ready to be published.
Besides editing, a working copy may involve other publishing professionals like book designers, proofreaders, or marketers whose expertise is directed toward improving the quality and marketability of the book. The working copy serves as a communicative mechanism for these stakeholders, helping polish the book’s content and presentation.
Eventually, it goes through multiple edits and corrections and becomes final when the publisher considers it ready for publication. After making the necessary changes, the working copy will become the predecessor of the final published version of the book.