What is the difference between proofreading and editing?
Proofreading, in publishing terms, literally means checking the final folios for mistakes before they go to the printing press. It assumes that the body of text itself is in a presentable form and that only minor errors can be expected. Editing takes this process back a stage further and may involve reshaping the text, to some extent. The brief of an editor can be far greater in scope than that of a proofreader in that he has the ability to effect substantial change to the text. Both tasks were, until quite recently, carried out on paper, but it is now more common to do them on a computer screen.
How do I know what level is required?
I will take a look at the text and advise you of the extent of any editing that needs doing. This is important because a text can range from an impenetrable “stream of consciousness” monologue to a finely honed academic text. I’ve dealt with both (and most things in between) and obviously one extreme is going to require a lot more work than the other.
So, I just send you my document and I get it back fully edited/translated?
Yes. If there is anything I need to ask you along the way in terms of clarifying points, I will get in touch by email or phone. Otherwise you’ll receive the edited work within the agreed timescale and I will include an “Editor’s Comments” summary outlining any changes I have made and suggesting ways in which I think it could be improved but which fall outside of my remit. You’ll get one copy of the text showing any changes I’ve made in red, and another “clean” copy that is the final edited document.
Can you edit/proofread on paper?
Yes, I know all the proofreading and editing symbols and am happy to work on paper.
Do you do “axe jobs”?
Only out by the wood pile. If someone has written something that requires major changes just to make it readable, I will tell them so. I can offer a rewriting service, which costs more than normal editing, but can’t promise to replicate the author’s original voice.
You’re British, right? What about if something needs to be in American English?
No problem. I’ve worked for agencies where it has been a requirement to “speak both languages” - and I’ve read enough American novels and articles. If you’re truly concerned about, say, portraying a Louisiana drawl, I’d recommend employing an editor from Louisiana.
I have written a thesis that needs to be in a certain format, can you do this?
I have experience applying the American Psychological Association (APA) format, and have used the Chicago and Harvard ones too. In general I can check that it has been applied correctly but it is the author’s responsibility to ensure the correct format has been applied.
And how do I know you won’t change my academic text?
My own academic background is in economics, social science and philosophy, so I am broadly comfortable with theses that fall within these categories and won’t alter the meaning of anything unintentionally. For all other disciplines (especially IT, engineering and scientific), I will not alter something that I suspect of being ungrammatical if I think this might impede the meaning of a term I am not familiar with. I will, instead, query it with the author or leave an in-text comment.
I’ve written a novel. Can you help to get it published?
By all means I can offer advice. I have had dealings with several publishing houses and have been through the “first time novel assault course” myself. I can’t promise you’ll get published but I can make sure your synopsis and sample chapters are in great form. I can also provide the addresses of relevant literary agents and publishers.
What qualifies you to edit my stuff?
I have passed the rigorous course run by Chapterhouse Publishing (UK), of which only one in 20 actually makes the grade and becomes an editor. In addition I’ve been a commissioning features editor, a newspaper editor, have written articles for magazines and receive regular book editing work from publishers in the UK. Also, I’ve been writing since I was six (mostly stories about dragons).
I’ve written a medical textbook which heart surgeons will be referring to in theatre. Can you edit it?
Er, probably not. In some cases you will need to employ an editor in a specialist field. If I’m uncomfortable doing it, I’ll say so.
What if someone has written something controversial? Will you still edit it?
By all means - but with caveats. I won’t touch any material that is racist, inflammatory or bigoted. Neither will I put my name to any ‘unusual’ religious/political theories submitted anonymously. In general I retain the right to refuse any work I’m uncomfortable with for ethical reasons.
Will you write an article for my travel/environment magazine?
Sure! Email me and we can discuss your requirements further.
Can you edit my stuff for free?
Probably not. I might consider it in cases where the individual or group is unable to pay for reasons beyond their control. It’s worth asking.
I need you to edit my work urgently and I need it back in one hour. Can you do it?
Steady on! Email or ring me to see if I’m available. I might be able to squeeze it in if it’s urgent but I charge double for anything with a 24 hour turnaround.
I have DTP documents in InDesign/Quark format. Can you edit them?
Yes, I’m trained in both and have the software.
I’ve written a book/thesis/application/article/essay/company report and I need you to edit it. If I like what you’ve done then I’ll pay you afterwards, is this OK?
Sorry, no. Anything that comes to less than 100 euros ($US 130, 90 pounds sterling) must be paid for up front by either PayPal or bank transfer. For anything that comes to more than that at least 50% must be paid up front, with the remainder being paid on completion. I wish it didn’t have to be so but as a freelancer I need the security to know I will be paid. After all, you wouldn’t only pay for a meal if you liked the food, would you?
How can I send you my documents?
Just attach them to an email. I most cases it will be a Word document. If it’s something different check with me first to see if I can open it.
Do you edit blogs?
Yes, if that’s what you want.
Do you edit illustrations and graphics?
No. That’s not what I’m good at.
Do you do Spanish or Danish translations?
Yes!
How much do you charge?
I can give you a quote if you provide me with a sample of text. I am extremely reasonable compared to others.
Do you do free sample edits?
Yes, just send me a snippet (a page would be fine) and I’ll give you a free sample.
