Softcopy
Softcopy means on the computer. If we work in Word or OpenOffice, I turn on Track Changes, and you can see both the in-line edits and how your manuscript looks if you accept them all. For other editing tools, such as this webpage, I use some variation on the editing system in the Sample Edits. Almost everyone works in Word. However, I use OpenOffice for my stuff. It can be downloaded free.
Hardcopy
Hardcopy means actual pages on which I actually write with my actual little ballpoint pen. I use standard typesetting markup for hardcopy editing. I’ve been both newspaper editor and typesetter in my past life, back before desktop publishing, when we did all this stuff by hand. I’ve been using typesetting markup on my own manuscripts since I was about 18. I enclose a standard typesetting markup legend with your hardcopy edit, for your convenience.