Let’s get down to the FAQs. Here are some answers to a few common questions. If you have a question not listed below, feel free to contact me!
Q: Why hire an editor?
A: Because clear communication is necessary to spreading your message. Writing puts ideas on paper; editing makes sense of those ideas. As your editor, my goal is to help you communicate your ideas in the most effective and clear way possible while preserving your voice and vision throughout the writing. You’ve put the work into writing something important; an editor puts the work into tidying up and helping you clearly express your message—and I can’t wait to get started.
Q: Do you just fix punctuation and spelling errors?
A: Although I proofread your work to catch spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors, I also consider the big picture. What are your audience’s expectations? What questions might they have that went unanswered in the piece? I also examine clarity, structure, word choice, and tone. When you receive the edited document, you’ll have my suggestions on how to make your ideas stand strong and flow smoothly.
Q: How much do you charge?
A: Generally, I charge $30 per 1,000 words (which is $0.03 per word), but I generate estimates on an individual basis. Professional editing can be a significant investment, but what you are paying for is my expertise as a Master of Arts in Science Writing with publishing and teaching experience, as well as the confidence and relief in knowing that your work is truly your best. Please see my Services & Rates page, as well as my Payment page, for more on cost evaluation, and contact me for a free estimate!
Q: How do I pay you?
A: I accept debit/credit cards and bank transfers through Wave Accounting or Zelle. Or you can send a personal check, though it must clear before I can send the edited document to you. Please see my payment schedule for more on deposit amounts and deadlines.
Q: How do I send my document to you?
A: Please email it to me as a Microsoft Word document. I will make line edits and write comments in the margins using Track Changes. Then I’ll send the edited version back to you so you can integrate my suggestions into your final draft.
Q: If I hire you, can you guarantee my writing will get published?
A: Nope. Hiring a professional editor can help your chances, but publication isn’t always dependent solely upon the strength of a piece. You’ll have to consider factors such as the type of publication outlet, the relevance of your work to the outlet’s previous and current publications, and how you pitch your work to the publication editor.
