I can provide editing and proofreading support for your writing, including:
- manuscripts
- corporate documents
- academic papers
- web content
- articles and features
- press releases
- blogs.
The service is tailored according to your requirements but it usually involves:
- identifying corrections to spelling, grammar and punctuation
- ensuring consistency throughout (e.g. capitalisation, hyphenation, terminology)
- correcting any formatting, spacing or layout issues
- checking page numbers, captions, tables, headings, references, etc
- rephrasing to improve the flow of a sentence, particularly if the author’s first language isn’t English.
Of course, I’m always happy to include any other specific requirements that you might have.
In most cases, I’ll show my suggested changes using Microsoft Word’s ‘Track Changes’ function or Adobe Acrobat’s commenting tools.
AI policy: I don’t use AI while editing. I will not put a client’s text into a large language model (LLM).
Levels of editing
Copyediting, as the name suggests, involves editing the draft ‘copy’ to get it ready for publication. This usually involves making significant changes to the text. If your document has not yet had any form of professional editing, or if it has been written by someone using English as a second language, it’s likely to need copyediting. (The CIEP gives some useful information about copyediting.)
Proofreading is the final quality-control step in the publishing process and involves making fewer changes than copyediting – for example, identifying typos/errors and suggesting minor changes. (Again, the CIEP gives some useful information about proofreading.)
Proofediting is a hybrid process somewhere between copyediting and proofreading, where both tasks are carried out at the same time. This isn’t always appropriate, but there are many occasions where it’s sufficient.
Subjects and specialisms
I offer a service for most subjects, although I specialise in science and engineering with particular expertise in the environment and sustainability (e.g. environmental engineering; energy; air and water pollution; conservation; environmental policy and management; and climate change).
However, editing skills are transferable to any subject matter – prior knowledge of a subject often helps but isn’t always essential.
For more information on my background, please read about my qualifications and experience.
Prices
Prices vary depending on the complexity of the subject matter and also the level of service required. As a guideline, the CIEP has provided suggested minimum rates.
Frequently asked questions
For more information, please see the FAQs.
Terms and conditions
Terms and conditions are issued for each new piece of work.
The CIEP’s Professional Practice Code is followed at all times.
Contact
Please contact me for a quote or to discuss your requirements.