Copyediting is the third editing stage and operates at the sentence level. It’s the stage right before the final editorial pass, proofreading, so the document should be solid as a whole and just need its sentences tweaked to flow easily and without error. (Of course, editing and proofreading, just like writing and editing, cannot be done perfectly at the same time. So while copyediting does sweep for errors like proofreading does, it’s recommended to have someone proofread your document after the copy editor to catch any remaining errors. Errors can disqualify the author’s credibility in the audience’s eyes, so it’s worth it.)

What I'll do as your copy editor:
Just like for proofreading, I will read your document and ensure it has proper
  • punctuation,
  • capitalization,
  • grammar,
  • word choice,
  • spelling,
  • formatting,
  • chapter/page numbers, and
  • American English.
I will also look for and correct any repeated words, missing words, and broken links.

But, in addition, I will edit your work to make it clear, consistent, and concise so it is readable, enjoyable, and understandable. That means I'll be looking for and flagging
  • wordy sentences,
  • repetitive phrases,
  • inconsistencies/contradictions,
  • rough transitions, etc.,
and providing you with solutions.
Base Rate: $0.015 per word
(Each project is unique, requiring different levels of technicality, turn-around times, and editing, so once I get to evaluate yours, I can give you a personalized quote.)

If you like what you've heard, take a look at the next section: How the Process Works, and let's copyedit!

How the Process Works*

1. Click the "LET'S GET STARTED" button below (or go to the Contact page) and fill out the contact form (or email me). There you can tell me a little about your content, word count, and deadline and which service you would like to use. No worries if you're still unsure what one you need. Just let me know you're uncertain, and we'll determine it together. I will review your message and email you to let you know if I can process your request.

2. (For Proofreading and Copyediting Projects) Once we know I can take on your project, you can send it to me as a Microsoft Word document. Upon examining it, I will send you a personalized quote for you to decide on. Half the rate will be paid up front and the remainder will be paid at the project's completion.

2. (For Writing Projects) Once we know I can take on your project, I will send a personalized quote for you to decide on. Half the rate will be paid up front and the remainder will be paid at the project's completion.

3. If the quote works for you, I'll send the first invoice, and once it's paid, I'll set to work on your document. (For proofreading and copyediting, I will use Microsoft Word Track Changes to go in and fix whatever I find. As needed, I'll also leave comments to explain or suggest alterations. If you're interested in learning, the comments is where you'll find some great tidbits to increase your knowledge!)

4. When all the work's done, I will send you the second invoice for the remaining balance and upon receipt of payment, will forward your finished document. (For proofreading and copyediting, I'll send two versions of your project: one with all the Track Changes showing and the other with all the edits incorporated. That way you can see all the alterations, ask me questions, and accept or reject the changes.)

*These steps are designed to give a general idea of my procedure. The exact steps taken will differ slightly depending on the type of document being serviced. But don't worry! I will let you know of any changes to the usual process in our email exchanges.

The resources I'll use:
My go-to resources are Merriam-Webster's online dictionary and the latest version of The Chicago Manual of Style, but if you have a different style guide or dictionary you would like me to use, just let me know. I am more than happy to use them! I am also open to learning word-processing programs other than Microsoft Word.