How We’ll Work Together
> My process
After you contact me, here’s what you can expect:
We’ll cover quick, initial questions via email.
I’ll ask you to send your manuscript or materials in their complete, edit-ready form for my assessment (this is required before I will provide a fee estimate for your project). We’ll discuss your goals and expectations in a complimentary 15- to 30-minute conversation via phone or video call. Writing is often personal, so connecting to meet or chat can be beneficial as we consider working together.
For most projects, I’ll provide a sample edit to confirm our expectations align regarding the level of editing and what you want to accomplish, or to determine if a different level of editing is needed or suggested. The sample will give you an idea of my approach and style.
With the sample edit, you’ll also receive a proposal with a rate/fee estimate and the scope of work clearly defined. After you review the sample edit and proposal, there’s no obligation to move forward if it’s not the best fit. Simply let me know. I may even be able to suggest other options for you!
If you decide to proceed, we’ll agree on the timeline, deadlines, and payment details.* I’ll send a service agreement for you to review and sign, which includes my terms and conditions.
For projects of 5K words or more, a 50% deposit of the total estimated fee is required before work will begin.
* Please note that I do not officially hold time in my calendar for a project unless there is a signed agreement and a deposit has been received. If the project runs late, I will work with you to negotiate a new timeline.
> References I use
My main, default style guide and dictionary are the Chicago Manual of Style v.17 and Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary. I also use The Chicago Guide to Copyediting Fiction by Amy J. Schneider.
I’m familiar with AP, APA, and other style guides. I’m happy to use your house style guide or project style sheet—or create either for you!
> Formats I work with
For all stages of editing, I work in MS Word; for proofreading, I can work with either MS Word files for certain types of documents or PDFs.
Other formats such as Google Docs, MS PowerPoint, content management systems, or course platforms will be considered based on length and complexity of the content. Please ask! I’ll let you know what’s possible. Additional fees may apply for some formats.