Copyediting and proofreading of English copy

I remove errors from English documents that need to meet publication-level standards

If you ask me to proofread a document, I will only correct it to make sure that it is free of errors. I will not change what is written unless it is incorrect. I will not change your copy but simply polish it to make sure it is consistent and ready for publication.

If you ask me to copyedit a document, I will correct it and suggest changes to make your copy read better.

In line with the CIEP's Code of Practice, I provide three levels of copyediting:

Level one

Light

I will proofread your copy and check for any spelling and punctuation errors, grammatical mistakes, formatting issues, etc.

I will not change your copy but simply polish it to make sure it is consistent and ready for publication.

I am happy to work with a typesetter as necessary to mark up the copy and ensure the final document is error-free.

Level two

Medium

I will edit your writing style if necessary and suggest improvements to the language and phrasing to make the copy read better.

I will ensure that your copy is fit for purpose and meets the creative brief.

This level is particularly useful for copy that has been written by more than one author but needs to read as if one person wrote it.

I will also proofread the copy as described in level one.

Level three

Heavy

I will restructure and rewrite your copy to ensure that it is appropriate for the intended market and in line with the creative brief provided.

I will also edit your writing style as described in level two and proofread the copy as described in level one.

Please get in touch with me to discuss your creative brief and what level of copyediting you require.

If you decide to hire me to work on your copyediting project, I will:

1

Ask you to send me a copy of all the documents, including reference materials, via a secure network.

2

Confirm the brief with you in writing.

3

Outline a schedule and set a clear deadline.

4

Keep you updated on the progress of the project and get in touch if I have any queries.

5

Deliver the final project by the agreed deadline via a secure network.

Copyediting and proofreading FAQ

I’ve collected the answers to the most common copyediting questions I’m asked below – if you can’t find an answer to your question, feel free to get in touch.

  • Why should I get something copyedited or proofread by you?
  • If the reader of your document spots the tiniest of mistakes in your copy, they may lose trust in what you do.

    But it’s not easy to spot mistakes in your own writing. You’ve got this far in writing something you’re really proud of – don’t stop there!

    I’m a certified copyeditor and proofreader with a keen eye for detail and making things consistent.

    I will check your copy in detail and provide you with the confidence that it’s error-free and ready to be published.

  • How much do you charge to copyedit or proofread documents?
  • I charge a minimum of £35 per hour for any work I undertake.

    My price will depend on your project. I’ll be happy to discuss your project with you and provide you with a free quote.

  • Do you use any technology during your English language copyediting and proofreading process?
  • It depends on what files you’re using to create your project. I usually work in Microsoft Word with Track Changes on. This feature lets you see what changes I’ve made to your document and allows you to approve them.

    I also have advanced desktop publishing skills in software such as Adobe Acrobat and Adobe InDesign if that’s your preferred software.

Sound good? Or do you have any more questions?