FAQs

How much will it cost?

When we start to discuss your project, I’ll ask you for your estimated word count and an estimated time scale for the work. I’ll also ask to see a draft (or a sample) of the text so I can help you to decide what service is right for you. With all this information, I’ll be able to provide you with a quote, so you’ll know exactly how much your project will cost before you make a commitment.

How long does it take?

No two projects are the same, even if they have the same word count or are written by the same person. That said, you can usually expect a word count of around 100,000 words to take between three and four weeks, although it can take longer at busier times.

I always recommend making a booking well in advance.

Is my text ‘good enough’?

A lot of first-time authors worry that their work isn’t yet at a publishable standard, and even that it never will be. And that worry isn’t without foundation – getting published can be tough, and not everyone is successful. That said, nothing gets published in a vacuum, so you’re already taking a really positive step by thinking about working with an editor.

I can’t guarantee you fame or fortune, of course, but I can work with you to make sure it’s in the best possible shape to be sent to publishers, agents or even just friends and family!

Can you guarantee perfection?

I can guarantee I’m always aiming for it! The more passes your text goes through, the better it’ll be – that’s why publishers insist on multiple passes of editing and proofreading before sending a text to press. After all, editors are only human, too!

What are your credentials?

I started editing in earnest as an intern for an English-language newspaper in Kathmandu, Nepal, and later for a regional journal. A few years later, and back in the UK, I started freelancing and now have several years’ full-time experience in the field.

I regularly undertake training (providers include CIEP, the Publishing Training Centre and Cadman) to build upon existing skills and learn new ones that my clients will benefit from.

I’m accredited as a Professional member of the CIEP and I have a range of testimonials from satisfied customers.

Why don’t you work on fiction?

I got my start in editing working in journalism, helping non-native English-speaking reporters write longform reports. I also read a lot of nonfiction in my spare time, and always have. By only working on nonfiction I’m turning a personal preference into a specialism, which I think adds value to the work I do for my clients.

Can you paraphrase something for me?

No. Paraphrasing is usually code for plagiarising, which isn’t something I’d ever help you with! I do understand, though, that sometimes businesses may want to ‘refresh’ outdated content, which is totally legitimate, but better in the hands of a professional copywriter.

When the text is ready to be edited, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

I’m interested in becoming an editor. How do I get started?

Editing is an extremely rewarding career option for people of any age and – without wanting to oversimplify it – you do get paid to read books, which is pretty cool. That said, it can be complicated, technical work and it can take a while to become financially stable, especially if you’re freelancing.

Find out if your home country has an editing society – the CIEP here in the UK is fantastic. They offer lots of resources, training courses, tests and they can be a good source of entry-level work opportunities.