Services and Pricing

Not all editors define the different levels of editing the same way, so the sections below describe the specific services I offer.

My preferred method of editing is by using the Track Changes feature in Microsoft Word. I can provide free sample edits to ensure that the author will be satisfied with the results. This also helps me to gauge the amount of work that will be necessary on a project.

I live in Atlanta, GA, and can edit for either US or UK English. Please see the Testimonials page for references.

Proofreading

The proofreading service offered is best described as error correction. It covers the types of mistakes that do not require a judgment call, just fine attention to detail. This stage is the final quality check before your work is released into the wild for all to see. Proofreading includes correcting the following:

Spelling
Doubled Words
Missing Words
Word Stacks
Footers
Homophones
Missing or obviously incorrect punctuation
Stat Block errors

Proofreading rates are based on a single read of the manuscript:

Over 10,000 words: $14.00 per 1,000 words
Under 10,000 words: $50.00 minimum
Revenue-sharing is available for DMs Guild or DriveThruRPG content creators

I will also proofread other fiction or non-fiction publications.

Copyediting (Line Editing)

Copyediting includes checking for the errors listed in the proofreading list and also the type of errors that require some level of judgment. This stage is the kind of editing you want when your manuscript is in its final draft. I’ll dig into it line by line to fix spelling, grammar, punctuation, usage, sentence structure, and other mechanical errors. The object is to lend your writing flow and comprehension. I consider the consistency of style and the author’s voice to be very important.

The suggestions and corrections I make should require only minor rewriting. Copyediting includes:

Correcting errors listed under proofreading
Consistent style throughout
Repetitive passages
Awkward sentences
Translation errors
Grammar (except where grammar “errors” are part of the author’s style and intentional)
5e Mechanics

Copyediting rates are based on two reads of the manuscript, with author rewrites in between.

Over 10,000 words: $25.00 per 1,000 words
Under 10,000 words: $75.00 minimum
Revenue-sharing is available for DM’s Guild or DriveThruRPG content creators.

Non-fiction often requires additional services, such as fact-checking, which I do not provide, and I can only quote a price after discussing it with you and understanding exactly what you desire.

Developmental Editing

This stage is the big-picture edit of a rough draft. Think of it like building a house—it’s a lot easier and more productive to start with a strong foundation than it is to tear things down later when you find underlying problems. I’ll address characterization, plot, resolution, clarity of voice, dialogue, and content structure. Once the manuscript has been revised, I will also copyedit the piece.

Developmental Editing rates are negotiable. For smaller independent writers, it is typically a revenue-sharing agreement.

How Long It Takes

Below is a list of estimated times by word count. Times are for copy-editing services and are estimates. Proofreading times will be slightly shorter. You will receive a more specific time-to-completion with your quote after submitting your sample.

Up to 20,000 words: 5 to 7 days
Up to 50,000 words: 2 to 3 weeks
Up to 100,000 words: 3 to 4 weeks
Over 100,000 words: 1 month

How to Submit a Project

Please use the Contact Me form to make arrangements for a sample and price quote, and I will contact you within 24 hours.

After editing your sample, I will return it with an expected time of completion and the price for the work.

Payment

I prefer payment by PayPal. Wire transfers are also an option. Payment is expected within 24 hours of completion. For larger projects, payment terms are negotiable.

I try to be as flexible as possible when scheduling. With advance notice, I am always happy to reschedule start dates when necessary.

I am willing to consider other payment options on a case-by-case basis.

After the Editing

Once your product has been edited or proofread, it will need to go through layout and be formatted. These are not services that I currently offer, but I am happy to offer a reference to someone for this service.