• Light copy editing – Also called “editorial proofreading,” after the first proofread pass, a copy edit pass is done to check word usage and basic grammar. This can be considered editing at the “sentence” level. The text is then sent back to the client for review. The client can ask for further revision, or can mark a change as “stet” (Latin for “let it stand”) if they would like it to be reverted to the original. After receiving the reviewed text from the client, a final proofread pass is done, and the final text submitted to the client.

• Medium copy editing – After a first proofread pass and copy edit pass, the text is given another copy edit pass for revisions at the “paragraph” level. Here, sentences may be reordered or restructured for style, readability, and clarity. The text is sent back to the client for review, and there may be discussions regarding the necessity of certain changes, and the text may be sent back and forth a number of times as revisions are made. When the client approves of the final text, it is sent to the client after a final proofread pass.

• Heavy copy editing – This is “document” level copy editing. After a proofread pass, two copy edit passes, and any further revisions after discussion with the client, a third copy edit pass is done for style and format, checking for consistency with text and graphics, the table of contents or index, and footnotes and references. If there is a particular style guide to be followed, the document is revised and reformatted following that style guide. After final approval by the client, a final proofreading pass is done and the document is sent to the client.

How long will the process take? What are your rates?

The answers to both these questions are largely dependent on the content and the time frame required.

Editing work is billed by the hour. As a rule of thumb, one proofread pass can be done at 5,000 words/per hour, and a copy edit pass can be done at 2,500 words/per hour. So basic copy editing of a 5,000 word manuscript would be billed for 4 hours (1 hour for each proofreading pass, and 2 hours for the copy edit pass). While the billing would be for 4 hours, it is recommended a day be set aside for each pass, for best efficiency and quality.

Contact me for a free estimate.

Is there a specific text format that is required?

Various formats can be accommodated, including hard copy, but for best results it is recommended that the text be sent in a Microsoft Word document. Any changes in the text will be shown through the Track Changes feature, and comments can be put in the margins.