Ask the Editor - Answers to some of the more common questions asked by clients
What types of editing do you offer?
In simple terms, I offer proofreading and copy-editing. Proofreading is fairly straightforward. It is a FINAL check of the written work, looking for errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, syntax, typos, and missing or duplicate words, but also checking on spacing, formatting, fonts, font sizes (and many other things, depending on the content). It is "black and white" and follows rules set by your chosen style guide or dictionary. Copy-Editing is a catch-all phrase which can include Developmental Editing, Copy-Editing and Line-Editing. These services are better suited to longer projects such as book manuscripts and although they include everything covered by Proofreading, they also focus on the flow of the writing. The author's "voice" will always be maintained, however, suggestions might be made to use different wording or to paraphrase sections of the text to make it clearer or more concise. I also check for consistency, plot holes, and fact checking (such as the consistent use of character names or descriptions). Depending on the stage of editing that you are currently at, you might choose to have your work appraised early on by selecting a full developmental edit. Alternatively, you might require a "heavy" copy-edit or a "light" line-edit (both of which are also suited to business, marketing, and personal documents). As to which level you should choose, I would always suggest that you take advantage of my FREE sample edit offer where I will edit 1000 words of your document and give feedback regarding the level of editing required. If you are still unsure, contact me for further advice through my Contacts Page.
Which type of editing should I choose?
The type of editing that you require will depend on a number of factors. If you have already had your work edited professionally and you are happy that it is at a standard suitable for publishing, then you should choose to have it proofread as this is the FINAL stage of the editing process. However, are you sure that your work is already at that stage? It is notoriously difficult to edit your own writing. Often, simple mistakes will be missed, the content might not flow as smoothly as you imagine it to, or its meaning may not read as intended. This is why I offer a FREE 1000 word sample edit on longer projects. You provide me with a section of your writing (ideally from the middle of your manuscript), I edit it and give you feedback as to the stage in the editing process that I consider it has reached, and I get to estimate the amount of work required and the timescale to complete the job. Equally, you get to see how I work, what sort of feedback you will receive, and whether you think that we will work well together. Remember, editing is a collaboration. Ultimately, it is your writing; I might make changes or suggestions, but you have the final choice as to whether you accept them.
How do you work? What format do you want my writing in?
Primarily, I use Track Changes in Microsoft Word. I can edit the text directly and can add "comments" which are suggestions or explanations as to why something was altered. When you receive the finished document, you get one copy that is "clean" with all of the changes implimented, and you receive a second copy with all of the changes visible. It is advisable to go through this second copy in minute detail, checking that all of the changes are what you want. If everything is fine, you have a finished copy ready to go. However, if some of the changes are not to your liking, you have the option to "accept" or "decline" each individual change. For a more detailed explanation of how Track Changes works, check the links under the Resources tab, above. As an alternative to using Word, I can edit a PDF document by adding "comments" or suggested changes. Please note - using this method does NOT change your actual text. I make suggested alterations and corrections, but you have to change your original source document. I can also work using Google Docs and other mediums, where appropriate. Simply contact me to discuss your requirements further.
Do you only edit and proofread English documents and manuscripts?
I was born and bred in England, UK, and so my preferred style of editing is to use UK English, following British spelling conventions and using British punctuation and grammar. That is not to say that I will not use other styles of English. I can easily convert to US English, Australian English, Canadian English etc, following their individual style conventions, if required. Simply put, if it is written in English, then I can edit it to your preferred style.
Which Style Guide do you use?
A style guide is a document that specifies stylistic preferences for the type of writing that you are doing. Some are specific to an individual industry or business, others are specific to an organisation or university. Which style guide I adhere to will depend on the type of writing that I am asked to edit, and where/who it will be submitted to. When it comes to book editing, in the UK, we tend to follow New Hart's Rules, whereas in the US, it is common to follow the Chicago Manual of Style. Each location tends to have its preferred guide. Some authors prefer to follow their own bespoke guide with variations to one of the larger manuals. All of these options are fine - there are no hard and fast rules - only guidance. Most clients tell me what style guide they prefer to follow and then tell me of any changes that they want to make specifically for their own writing. From this, I develop a style sheet for that author. If they are unsure which style they require (or are new to writing), I can offer my advice, or form a style sheet based on the writing that I encounter during the sample edit and throughout the project. At all stages, any inconsistencies or queries will be shared with the author.
I am writing an academic document for my college/university - will you edit it and rewrite sections to make it more readable?
I am sorry, but most colleges and universities have strict rules regarding the use of professional editors and proofreaders. The first thing to check is whether your particular institute allows the use of any editing services, and to what level. Generally speaking, it is normal to allow professional proofreading of the finished document, however, editing and paraphrasing is not acceptable. That being said, each college or university is different so please check on your specific situation. Whatever the case, prior to me being booked to conduct any proofreading of an academic document, I will need to receive permission from your course tutor/supervisor, in writing, confirming that my services are permitted. If you have any further questions regarding this, feel free to contact me for advice.
I don't live in the UK - can we still work together?
Absolutely. Although I am based in England, it does not matter where you are. Contact is made via email, and I aim to answer your correspondence as soon as possible. Once your document has been submitted to me, I will edit it, updating you with progress reports, as required. With regard to using style guides specific to your location or industry/business, please refer to previous answers in this section. When it comes to payment, I accept direct bank transfers (including from international locations), or you can pay via PayPal (transaction fees apply). I will invoice you in British Pounds and this can be converted to your local currency at the exchange rate of the day (transaction fees apply).
I have already used online self-editing tools - do I still need a professional editor?
Definitely. Many of the online spelling and grammar checkers are great at detecting "obvious" errors, however, they have their limits. They will not distinguish between words that sound the same but have different meanings. They can not understand context, humour, or puns. They can not ensure continuity in spelling and fact-checking. They are not able to adhere to a specific style guide (and certainly will not follow a bespoke style sheet). And they can not detect formatting issues or errors in font, font sizing, or numerous other errors. Yes, these AI tools can be useful (and should be used prior to submitting your work to an editor in order to save them time and save you money), but they should NEVER be relied on totally.
Isn't editing and proofreading expensive?
I am a self-published author and so appreciate that working to a budget is not easy. I aim to keep costs to a minimum. Editing and proofreading of smaller documents works on a fixed rate per 1000 words (with a minimum of £12 for very short jobs). Larger documents and manuscripts tend to be priced for the total job (rather than paying per hour or per word). That way, you have an agreed cost before you commit. I also accept payment by instalments, where requested and where appropriate. For large commissions, I request 50% payment in advance with the remainder to be paid on completion. However, should you wish to discuss submitting a number of chapters at a time (and subsequent payment in parts), then contact me to discuss it further.
Do you sub-contract the editing work?
Definitely not. I work on your documents entirely on my own. You have contact with me alone. And I ensure that you receive a personal service. If you are submitting a large piece of writing to be edited, I ensure that it will receive my full attention (I will not take on other jobs which might distract from focusing on your work).
Is my copyright protected? What about data protection?
Yes. Your work always remains your property. When you agree to work with me, you are provided with a copy of the "Terms and Conditions" which protect your copyright in law. As regards data protection, again, this is covered in the T&Cs, plus, once all work has been completed and paid for, all of your personal work files will be removed from my devices. Terms and Conditions can be read via the link at the bottom of the page.
I have read all of the information on your website but I am still unsure - how can you help?
Firstly, this is totally understandable. Choosing an editor is a big commitment. The first step is to submit a FREE sample of your work. 1000 words from the middle of your document should be fine. I will assess it, make alterations, and return it to you with an idea of the amount of work and expense involved. At this point there is no commitment on your part. We then discuss your options and what would be the best way forward for you. If you are happy, we can then discuss whether you wish to submit your entire document, or whether you would prefer to submit it in sections. As a result, the method and frequency of your payments can be altered. If you have any further questions, or specific concerns, please feel free to contact me and I will do my best to help.