How can I help?
I offer a combined copyediting and proofreading service, and the cost is based on the total time it takes me to complete the job. The cost will vary depending on the quality of the original writing submitted and on the level of work I am being asked to do.
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Your document should ideally be read at least twice:
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Step One: as a Word document or Google Doc, to ensure the content of the document is correct.
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Step Two: after the layout is complete and it is ready to be printed, to check for font substitution, missing text and format changes which can occur during the layout process.
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I can help you with either or both of these steps. If you would like me to help with both steps, you will receive a 5% discount on the cost of Step Two. This will need to be agreed in advance, before work starts on Step One.
What is copyediting?
A copyeditor looks for consistency and discrepancies in the text, e.g. facts, names, or dates. They will suggest subtle changes that will improve the clarity, readability and flow e.g. awkward language, phrasing, wordiness or jargon. They will also suggest changes to language and sentence structure which may appear confusing.
Copyeditors do not suggest major changes to the original text; that is what substantive editors do. If you are working with an editor at a publishing company, that is their role.
What is proofreading?
A proofreader identifies and corrects errors in spelling, grammar and punctuation, as well as checking consistency in areas such as font style and size, capital letters, page numbers, titles, section numbers, headings, lists, tables, figures, captions, tables of contents, referencing, lists of illustrations, preliminary pages, footnotes, end matter, word spacing, line spacing, paragraphs, section breaks, margins, alignment etc.