Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between copy editing and proofreading?
Copy editing is a more intensive process than a check for spelling and typos. With copy editing, I’m looking for sentence structure issues, awkward phrasing and inconsistencies in tone.
Proofreading, however, is generally the last check before you press that send button or proceed to print. By the proofreading stage, I’m only looking for the kinds of errors that happen when you haven’t had enough sleep – we’re talking doubled up words, spelling and punctuation errors, the odd homonym, grammatical errors or formatting issues.
How long will my project take to complete? What is your turnaround time?
It all depends on what you need proofread or edited. How big your document is, the kind of document it is and how quickly you need it back will all play a part in my estimate. I’ll let you know how long I expect my turnaround time to be when I send you the quote. However, if you have a hard drop dead date or require an urgent turnaround, let me know in the contact form.
What are my pricing options?
Proofreading starts at $60 an hour (minimum 15 minutes).
Copy editing starts at $75 an hour (minimum 15 minutes).
Retainer agreements are also available if you have ongoing proofreading or copy editing needs.
Please see the Services & Pricing page for further info about what these rates include.
How does payment work? Do I need to pay a deposit?
Yes, for larger projects, I charge an upfront deposit of 50% of the total cost of your project. Once you’ve paid your deposit, I will get started!
For smaller projects (say a couple of documents or less than 1000 words), all charges are to be paid upfront. Once I receive payment, I’ll get on to proofing!
Can you work to a specific style guide?
Absolutely. If your business has a corporate style guide you need me to stick to, let me know before we get started (I’ll also need you to send me through a copy).
Where are you located?
I’m in Brisbane, Australia. For that reason, my proofreading and editing will cater to Australian English. However, I’m happy to adapt to American English for your work – just let me know of your requirements when we chat! And because the Spanish class I took at uni didn’t stick, I only offer my services in English.