Editing and proofreading
Editing/proofreading of academic writing, CVs/resumes and website content in English
I trained as an academic copy-editor and proofreader at a publishing services company in Cambridge, UK and have many years of proofreading experience. I offer the following services in this area:
Academic copy-editing: essay proofreading service, dissertation proofreading service, thesis/PhD proofreading service, journal article proofreading service
Subject areas include archaeology, architecture, anthropology, art history, business, economics, finance, geography, history, literature, marketing, philosophy, psychology, religion, translation studies, sociology
Proofreading of CVs/resumes and cover letters
Proofreading of website content and promotional material, e.g. for freelance professionals
What does editing/proofreading cost?
The price depends on the level of editing required, as well as the time frame. If you would like to know the approximate cost of having your text proofread, simply get in touch, either via email, WhatsApp or the contact form, and I'll be happy to provide a free quote.
How long does editing/proofreading take?
This depends on the individual text and how much editing it requires. Some texts may only need a light copy-edit whilst others will require more intervention. I am often able to take on last-minute jobs, so do ask if you have a tight deadline, and I will see what I can do.
Why use a freelance proofreader/editor rather than an agency?
If you do an internet search for "English proofreading", you will find plenty of platforms and agencies offering this service, sometimes at very low prices. Looking at some of their websites, however, I'm surprised by how many feature poorly proofread copy and obvious errors - it doesn't exactly instill confidence in a potential customer!
A freelance proofreader is more likely to be passionate about what they do and committed to working to a high standard. When you work with a freelancer, you have direct contact with them, rather than having to go through a project manager or other intermediary. This more personal relationship means the proofreader feels more accountable to you, and also allows for a productive dialogue - the proofreader can query the meaning of any phrases that are ambiguous, and by the same token, you have the chance to ask about any comments the proofreader has made that you are unclear about.
Why should I hire a professional to proofread my essay/dissertation/thesis/journal article/CV/website?
You should always proofread your own work; however, we all know that a fresh pair of eyes can be invaluable when it comes to spotting mistakes and ambiguities. Professional proofreaders are particularly helpful because they are well-versed in the finer details of spelling and punctuation, and will pick up on errors and inconsistencies that a "lay person" would not necessarily be aware of. They also help you to improve the clarity of your writing by flagging up any sentences that are unclear, and suggesting ways of rephrasing. This allows you to communicate your ideas more effectively, so that your writing is more positively received by its target audience.
What is the difference between (copy-)editing and proofreading?
Traditionally, copy-editing refers to the process of editing a typescript, i.e. a document in its raw form, before it has been made up into pages in preparation for printing. A copy-editor looks for errors and inconsistencies in spelling, punctuation, reference style etc., and makes minor stylistic improvements. Proofreading, on the other hand, means checking the proofs, i.e. pages that have been typeset and formatted ready for publication. However, in popular parlance, proofreading is often used to mean copy-editing, which is why I use it to describe what I do.
Since I primarily work with non-native English speakers, my academic editing service is a combination of
a) traditional copy-editing and
b) correcting linguistic or translation errors and making suggestions on how to improve clarity and style.
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Q&A: Editing and proofreading
Feedback
TESTIMONIALS
Charlotte helped me a lot with academic proofreading. Her work was very thorough and her comments were always extremely helpful.
– Kathrin Schabelski, English Studies graduate
As a non-native English speaker writing in English, I have really benefited from Charlotte’s proofreading services. She is extremely thorough, not only making sure there are no grammar, spelling or punctuation errors, but also improving the clarity and flow of the text. I would recommend her to any academics who want to be confident that their writing in English is of an excellent standard.
– Alice Covatta, Assistant Professor, University of Montreal
Charlotte is fantastic to work with. She fully understood my intentions and suggested better expressions, improving the final result. Responsive and professional throughout, she added great value to the project. Highly recommend!
– Teppei Ueno, motion graphic designer
I had to write a cover letter to apply for some further education courses in the UK. Charlotte helped me with both finding the right translations and improving my writing style. Together, we were able to give the letter a tone and wording that I felt completely comfortable with and confident in. I have nothing but positive things to say about her work.
– Manuel Hidalgo, horticulturist
I really appreciated Charlotte's work – she was professional and precise, making helpful corrections and always meeting the deadlines we agreed on. I was delighted with the service she provided.
– Giulia Nardini, Research Fellow in Early Modern History, Bielefeld University
Contact
Get in touch
If you are interested in having your work proofread by an experienced professional, please get in touch. I will be happy to provide you with a free quotation based on the length and complexity of your text.