Frequently Asked Questions

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I have been a professional editor for over two years, however before this I was a secondary teacher and resident 'spell-checker' for everyone. Also not everyone wants to be included in my portfolio, and I take consent seriously. 

If you are concerned please feel free to message me.  

When you have finished writing and are ready for me to edit - without you making changes. Once you have sent your novel to me you will not be able to change, edit, add or delete anything without letting me know. This is because I check consistency of characters, plot, and story line no matter what type of editing you ask for. By having the completed manuscript I am able to be the most help. 

This does not count if you would like Mentoring or Developmental Consulting - both of which are done before the manuscript is 'final' in your eyes. 

What is most important for you to know is that my style is very collaborative and I do it using Google Docs or Word if the author prefers.

I always do four read throughs. The first time I read it without knowing anything but the basics, therefore I can get a sense for your writing style and then get a feel for your characters, storyline and tone. The second time I go through and begin to edit – I will come back to my editing style soon – and give it back to you afterwards. The third time I go through again and edit what changes you have made and see if I missed anything. The forth time is a final check for those pesky commas, full stops and random spaces that always appear or disappear. 

In regards to my editing style, like I said above it is very collaborative. Other than spaces and a few very obvious grammar mistakes I use the comments function rather than changing the document itself. When proofreading I will just say [ . ] or [ , ] if it has to be changed or add them in if missing. When copy-editing I will put in suggestions for changes as a comment. Between the third and forth edit we will organise a phone meeting where we work on the document together, I usually use WhatsApp as it’s instant, and this gives you a chance to discuss with me any spots that aren’t flowing right for you or questions you may have that I answer in real time. 

Overall this is your manuscript and I want to work with you to make it the best it can be. 

Another important thing to note is - I love my job. So be warned I will become advocates for your characters and be excited for your next book before the last one is finished. 

This depends entirely on the length of your manuscript and what type of editing you would like. An 80,000 word manuscript that needs Copy-Editing and Proofreading usually takes 5-6 weeks. The most important thing to be aware of is that it is a collaborative process, therefore I will work with you to improve your work but you will also work with me to understand your vision. 

Google Doc is my preference for copy-editing/proofreading, therefore when we have the meeting between edit two and three we can work on the document together in real time. However, formatting, and at times Developmental Editing  is done with MS Word as it the most accepted program for publishing. 

You will get invoiced through Hnry. I ask for a deposit of 25% plus a $50 administration fee before starting. The remaining total is due within two weeks of editing being completed unless  a payment plan is arranged prior.  I want to work with you so if 50/50 or a payment plan is easier then that can be arranged. 

I offer payment plans as well where you will be invoiced fortnightly or monthly depending on your preference.