Services

Do I really need a copyeditor? Yes, you do. Computerized spelling and grammar checkers can give writers a false sense of security. It’s important to note that while these checkers have their uses, they miss homophones, variant spellings, and the usage of a wrong word in a particular context.

My editing services include line editing, copyediting, and proofreading. These publishing terms are easily confused. Although there is some overlap, each service has a distinct purpose and occurs at different times in the publishing process. I’m happy to provide further explanation of my services.

Line Editing. This is a detailed editing service. It is a line-by-line review of written material at the sentence level that focuses on language usage. During a line edit, I may suggest rewrites and changes to aid in pace, clarity, and flow. While line editing, I will also ensure that your work has a consistent point of view.

Copyediting. Copyediting occurs after line editing and focuses on mechanical editing such as grammar, spelling, and syntax. A style guide is used during the copyediting stage to ensure adherence to specific rules. During copyediting, I may also note factually incorrect information.

Proofreading. Proofreading is the final stage before publication. Ideally, the proofreader and copyeditor are two different people. This allows a fresh set of eyes to see the written material. Proofreading catches errors that may have slipped through the copyediting stage.

Writing Services. A brief sample of my writing history includes org charts, training manuals, newsletters, donation requests, targeted thank-you letters, blast emails, annual and quarterly reports, executive CV’s, promotional materials, and grant proposals. Although I prefer to do rewrites of the above, we can discuss writing from scratch.

How I Work. I have a degree in English and a certificate in Copyediting from UC San Diego. I’m a member of the Editorial Freelancers Association and the Center for Plain Language. My editing follows the rules of the Chicago Manual of Style (I love a serial comma!) but I’m happy to work within your style parameters. Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate is my go-to dictionary. I prefer to edit in Microsoft Word using the track changes feature. Each project receives a customized style sheet that shows my style decisions and choices, such as the treatment of numbers, capitalization, and abbreviations.

Contact me today to see how my skills match your needs.