Abstract: A method of editing at a processor text formed by lines of characters received by the processor from a remote source whereby communication between the processor and the remote source is minimized. The method steps at the text processor include (a) generating a respective checking number corresponding to each line of characters received from the source; (b) modifying the received text to form a body of lines by selective addition, modification, or deletion of lines and characters; (c) generating a checking number for each line of modified text in the manner of step (a); and (d) associatively comparing the checking numbers of consecutive counterpart lines of the modified text with those of the received text and transmitting back to the remote source the entire text of only those lines which have been modified as denoted by said lines having checking numbers mismatching those of the received text.