I typically work at an hourly rate. I take all reasonable measures to work quickly but thoroughly and to stay within your budget. I can provide an hourly rate and an estimated range for the total amount before a project begins. Once the project begins, I will alert you if it appears that the number of hours may exceed the estimate. At that point, we can then decide how to proceed (for example, we might scale back to a lighter level of editing).
With advance notice (at least one to two weeks is preferred), I can block time on my calendar for a reasonably quick-turnaround project. See my availability calendar.
I may not be available for very quick turnarounds (such as one or two days) without prior notice because I often juggle several projects at the same time. I can usually turn around a 20-page document within five to seven working days, depending on the type and complexity of the document.
On average, I estimate (very) roughly 1,000 words per hour. The industry standard is 250 words per page, which comes out to approximately four pages per hour. However, my speed depends heavily on several factors:
Type of document (journal article, report, proposal, web content)
Complexity and quality of the writing
Level of technical content
Formatting requirements
Number and completeness of references and citations
Number of figures and tables and how much work they need
Type of editing requested
Time or budget constraints
I can provide short excerpts to give you an idea of my skills and communication style. However, the level of editing and the way I communicate within a document often depend on my relationship with a client. Some editing projects reflect heavier or lighter editing, depending on the client's specific needs and style requirements. Other projects reflect a shorthand style of communication after years of working together. Some of my clients are experienced editors themselves, so I communicate differently with them than I would with someone who has never worked with an editor before. I also have nondisclosure agreements with some clients and am unable to share samples of that work.
Yes! Let me know if you'd like to talk to previous clients who can attest to my skills and experience.
Absolutely! I collaborate with other editors who specialize in different areas and may be a better fit for your project or have more availability. I would be happy to refer you to them.
You could also browse the biographies of several editors and writers who belong to Mightier, a collective of woman-owned businesses.
Other places to look include:
Northwest Independent Editors Guild member directory
Editors of Color database
Editorial Freelancers Association member directory
ACES Editors for Hire directory
Copyediting-L list of freelancers
I occasionally offer writing services in partnership with skilled writers as part of larger projects that include both editing and writing. My writing partners belong to Mightier.
I would be happy to chat more and point you in the right direction. Please contact me today. I look forward to learning more about your work!