in publishing terms, the word tone refers to what?

http://www.writersservices.com/resources/publishing-glossary#T

In publishing, the word "tone" refers to the attitude or overall character that a piece of writing conveys. It describes the author's feelings, perspective, or intentions towards the subject matter. Understanding the tone is important for interpreting the meaning and mood of a piece of writing.

To identify the tone in a text, you can follow a few steps:

1. Read the text: Start by reading the passage or document carefully to get a sense of the overall message.

2. Pay attention to word choice: Look for specific words or phrases that indicate the author's emotions or attitudes. For example, words like "joyful," "angry," "sarcastic," or "serious" can give you clues about the tone.

3. Analyze sentence structure: Consider how the sentences are structured. Short, direct sentences with simple language can indicate a more straightforward and serious tone, while longer, complex sentences might suggest a more formal or academic tone.

4. Consider context: Think about the context in which the piece of writing was created. Take into account the subject matter, the author's background or purpose, and any other relevant factors that may influence the tone.

By applying these steps, you should be able to identify the tone of a piece of writing in the context of publishing.