Attila

Brian raises an important point though,

The importance of understanding the article before trying to improve it.

When describing a bonsai technique, one has to visualize it. Without it, there is a great danger of miscommunication, and it will happen inevitably. Not only that, but the editor has to be skillful enough, so that the reader can visualize the act. We are talking about describing complex processes here. Sometimes it is hard enough to communicate with your wife about what's for dinner, without being misunderstood. Never mind bonsai techniques.

Another point is, that every technique has essential aspects, and also parts that are less important, or optional. If the editor doesn't truly understand it, his writing will place equal emphasis on every little detail. And this would be a mistake. The reader needs to distinguish the essential from optional, otherwise he won't be able to learn it correctly.

This is all part of the editing process..