I offer complete copy editing services, with three levels to choose from.
Basic copy editing
This level of editing involves checking the technical apsects of your writing for correctness and consistency. $40 per 3,000 words (about 10 pages).
- Correct spelling, capitalization, punctuation, and grammar.
- Ensure consistency in spelling, capitalization, punctuation, and hyphenation.
- Ensure consistent use of numbers, numerals, abbreviations, and acronyms.
- Ensure the table of contents matches the manuscript (titles, page numbers).
Medium copy editing
Includes all of the basic copy editing features described above, plus the items below.
This level of editing takes a closer look at the writing itself. Small changes are made to make your writing shine. $50 per 3,000 words (about 10 pages).
- Smooth out confusing, or awkward sentences.
- Ensure consistent word usage and spelling throughout the manuscript. Foe example: the use of theatre when theater has been used throughout; e-mail or email; customers or clients. These inconsistencies can be jarring for readers and make for choppy reading.
- Ensure correct word usage throughout. For example: the use of in to when into is intended or affect where effect is meant.
- Change passive to active voice (optional).
Heavy copy editing / substantive editing
Includes all tasks in the basic and medium levels described above, plus those described below.
This level of editing reaches beyond the correction of technical elements, consistent usage, and minor sentence adjustments. The text is edited for improved structure and flow. Large portions may be reworked to in order to prepare your manuscript for the best reader experience. $80 per 3,000 words (about 10 pages).
- Ensure consistent style and tone.
- Eliminate wordiness, triteness, and redundancies.
- Adjust paragraphs for flow, logical structure, and clarity.
- Add or adjust headings for structural consistency, flow, and clarity.
- Fact-check nonfiction.
- Make suggestions for clearer writing, as needed.
- Make suggestions for larger changes (optional).
Please note: Additional words or pages will be edited on a pro-rated basis.
Beta reader
This is for completed manuscripts. This isn’t editing at all but, instead, will help you understand how effective your manuscript is with readers. A beta reader reads your book and makes suggestions from a reader’s perspective.
As a beta reader, I’ll read your completed book. Then I’ll prepare a report, giving my overall impressions of your book. I’ll also point out typos, grammatical and factual errors, and any inconsistencies I come across (though these are not comprehensive) and will give suggestions for improving your book. No editing is done.
This service will give you a reader’s impression of your book before you send it out for further editing, or to agents. I offer this service for nonfiction manuscripts only. Cost is $200 for manuscripts up to 250 pages.
Want to get started?
If you’d like me to edit your manuscript–or have questions–please get in touch. I look forward to hearing from you!
Denise