Services and Fees

Proofreading

I will read your manuscript line by line and identify any issues with:​

• Spelling​
• Grammar
• Punctuation
• Ambiguities in the text that could mislead the reader
• Page numbers and page headings
• Word spacing, indentation, columns, paragraph breaks and page breaks
• Widows and orphans – words or short lines at the top or bottom of a page
• Consistency of style (including spelling, hyphenation and capitalisation)
• Omissions and inconsistencies in the typography, layout and content
• Tables, illustrations, captions and labels
• References and citations
• The table of contents, chapter headings and end matter (including the appendices and index).

Proof-editing

​Proof-editing is a more intensive level of proofreading. In addition to highlighting all the issues above, I will check the nuance and cadence of the text and add comments about any flaws in the plot, flow or logic. This is particularly helpful if your manuscript has not been copy-edited.

How it works

​It starts with a conversation. Drop me a line and let me know how you think I can help. I will usually get back to you within a day or so. If I’m busy on other projects I will let you know when I’ll be available.
 
If you decide to work with me, we’ll agree a schedule and my fee. At this stage, I'll draw up a style sheet, or you may have one of your own. This records your preferences for things such as spelling (UK v US), capitalisation, hyphenation and punctuation. Every manuscript is different, so this is an important step.

​If your manuscript is in Word, I will annotate it using the Track Changes feature. For PDFs, I will use the comment tools, and for hard copies, I will use BSI proof-correction marks. In each case, all issues and recommended changes will be clearly highlighted. During the process I may ask you some clarification questions.
 
Once my work is complete and you are happy with the end result, I'll issue my invoice. You can pay by bank transfer, PayPal or cheque. That’s it.

Fees

Every project is different, and we'll agree my fee before the work starts. As a guide, my standard proofreading fee starts at £12 per 1,000 words, and my standard proof-editing fee starts at £14 per 1,000 words.

​Fees may be lower or higher depending on the project and the timescale, and a minimum fee applies for smaller projects – just get in touch and we can chat.
 
All fees are payable immediately once the proofreading has been completed.

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