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Clear Copy Editing… |
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...promoting clarity and creativity |
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Services
Proofreading/Editing/Copyediting Proofreading, editing and copyediting are closely related and really only differ in terms of the “depth” of work. Any writing project will require some level of correction, from light proofreading to in-depth copyediting. Below I have outlined three levels, though they will frequently overlap. This is simply a guide to assist you in determining about how much editing you will require.
Level 1: Simple proofreading for typographical errors, spelling, and punctuation. Level 2: Level 1 plus editing for grammar, sentence structure, and word choice. Level 3: In-depth copyediting, which would include everything in Levels 1 and 2, as well as such things as consistency of tone, flow of ideas, emphasis, dialogue, and other structural revisions as needed.
Formatting Formatting is a separate process that involves page layout, type font and size, spacing, headings, page numbering—everything having to do with the final appearance of your manuscript or project.
I will be more than happy to discuss your project with you so that we may ascertain together what services you require. I can provide any service that you need. Perhaps you only need a final proofreading check and formatting. Perhaps you wish to receive input on structural aspects of your work. Perhaps you would like an initial evaluation of your piece. Perhaps you’re not sure how much editing you need on your manuscript. Please don’t hesitate to ask.
How? The usual method for sending me your work is to email me with an attachment that includes your manuscript file from your word processing program. Using the electronic method, I can proofread and edit your work using the “track changes” facility which highlights my comments in yellow and suggested revisions in red. You then have the option of accepting or rejecting each change. This method is efficient and convenient for you as the end user, and gives you ultimate authority over your work. I can edit work that has been created in Microsoft Word or WordPerfect.
Rates
My rate is $25.00 per hour. I believe that a flat per-hour rate is the most straightforward pricing method.
My pricing compares very competitively with the per-page or per-word pricing that many editors use. If you compare my pricing with most other editing services, you will be pleasantly surprised to find that my services will cost you less, but certainly without sacrificing quality. Editing is a vital process, but it is also time- consuming, and costs can add up. I prefer to charge a slightly lower fee so that my services are accessible and my clients can feel more comfortable with their expense.
A standard manuscript page is 250 words, double-spaced, 12-point font. (To determine the number of pages in your manuscript, simply divide the total number of words by 250.) On average, 6-10 pages can be completed per hour, depending on the level of work provided. This number can vary substantially. Sometimes it is possible to complete up to 15 pages per hour if all that is needed is minor proofreading or editing.
I will be happy to sample edit 2-3 pages of your manuscript at no charge to allow you to evaluate my editing style. This also gives me the opportunity to assess your work so that I can provide you with feedback and an accurate time/cost estimate.
I always provide an up-front, no-obligation price estimate for working on your project. The decision and cost control is in your hands.
Payment I accept payment by cashier’s check or through Paypal.
Payment arrangements can be made according to the individual project. Usually, however, a down payment is requested at the start of the project with the balance due upon completion. If you have a lengthy manuscript, the work can be broken down into installments. I am flexible about working out a convenient arrangement.
Contact me! You’ll be glad you did.
Clarity . . . Creativity . . . Continuity
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“If writing must be a precise form of communication, it should be treated like a precision instrument. It should be sharpened, and it should not be used carelessly.” --Theodore M. Bernstein, N.Y.Times editor
“Writing is easy. All you do is stare at a blank sheet of paper until drops of blood form on your forehead.” --Gene Fowler, journalist and biographer
“Half my life is an act of revision.” --John Irving, author
“Everybody is talented, original and has something important to say.” --Brenda Ueland, author and writing teacher
“Wrestling with words gave me my moments of greatest meaning.” --Richard Wright, author
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“Blot out, correct, insert, refine
Enlarge, diminish, interline;
Be mindful, when intervention fails,
To scratch your head, and bite your nails.” --Jonathan Swift
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