Handy Editorials: Freelance Proofreading and Editing services


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Which Service Do I Need: Proofreading? Editing? Something Else?

Contact me for information on how I can help you and your project. I offer the following services: Proofreading
Proofreading polishes your text

Proofreading is the final stage of editing. A proofreader does not rewrite your documents or alter your style in any way. However they will still raise queries if there is a problem with the structure of the text.

A proofreader:
  • corrects spelling, punctuation and grammar errors
  • checks that content looks right and is arranged logically
  • follows a style guide if available and ensures consistency throughout your document in
    • formatting
    • italicisation
    • hypenation
    • spelling
  • makes sure the presentation of the document is elegant and easy to read
  • checks that illustrations, tables, captions and labels correspond with each other and with the text
  • Where appropriate, checks cross-references (including Table of Contents)
Proof-Editing
Also known as a "light edit", proof-editing is more than a basic proofread, but not the full edit that a copy-editor will provide. This extra "polish" is done during a proofread, where a small amount of grammatical editing is also included.
Proof-editing is needed to maximise the clarity of the messages being delivered. The English is tightened where appropriate, paragraphs re-structured to improve flow, repetition of content eliminated.
This service is most often used by non-publishers.

Copy-Editing
Copy-editing styles your text

A copy-editor works with your text to make sure that there are no spelling or grammatical errors or inconsistencies, communicates your information to the reader in a clear, concise way, and is accurate.

A copy-editor also:
  • makes sure the text is suitable for your reader
  • ensures consistency throughout the document for content, style and structure
  • tightens up the style of the document
  • flags any plot/information inconsistencies or development issues
  • checks for any legal issues although the responsibility for this remains with the author/publisher of the document
  • has technical knowledge of printing and publishing and will ensure the document's suitablity
Developmental Editing
Writing Support

A developmental editor will support and guide you in anything from conception of an idea, structure planning and outline development to content development and revision and restructuring. Developmental editing does not involve actually writing the document. If this is required you will need a ghostwriter. Authors, academics and businesses can all benefit from developmental editing.

A developmental editor will:
  • rewrite and restructure your text to fit the format and improve the flow
  • identify any gaps in the content and suggest content to fill them
  • ensure consistent structure by suggesting headings and sections
  • deliver specific, detailed advice
  • understand your target audience
Help for Self-Publishers
Publishing Support

As well as writing your book, as a self-publisher you will also have to format, illustrate, and fact check your book; then organise page layout, jacket design, legal issues, marketing, selling... And then there is the question of printing or publishing to e-readers...
Professional help can ensure that you don't become overwhelmed or feel alone with your project. I can advise and guide you through your journey, helping you to craft a book that reaches the Publishing Industry's high standards.
* * * * * * *
As every project is different, I offer bespoke proofreading or editing packages tailored to your requirements. I base my pricing structure on the SfEP suggested rates, so please contact me on claire@handyeditorials.co.uk to discuss a package and rate that suits you and your needs.
Handy Editorials: Freelance Proofreading and Editing servicesHandy Editorials: Freelance Proofreading and Editing services

claire@handyeditorials.co.uk


HandyTIPS: Tips for writers

What Service Do I Need?
Proofreading

Proofreading polishes your text
A proofreader corrects spelling, punctuation and grammar errors, and ensures consistency throughout your document. They do not edit your work.

Proof-Editing

Some clients need more than a basic proofread, but don't require (or don't know that they require) the full edit a copy-editor will provide. This extra "polish" is done during a proofread, where a small amount of grammatical editing is also included.

Copy-Editing

Copy-editing styles your text
Copy-editing is a more in-depth process, which looks at maintaining your style and structure, and ensures the correctness of the document and checks that it is easy to read.
A copy-editor may need to rewrite part of your work with your co-operation.

Project Managing

Ghostwriting, Document management, Publishing assistance, etc.
There are many other factors involved in presenting your document, ranging from page layout and formatting, to time management and more. Whether you are self-publishing for the first time, co-ordinating a multi-person report or are a publisher with a new project, contact me to see how I can help further.


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