The following chart* shows the level of service to expect when considering to work with a professional writer and/or editor. Rates generally increase with each level.
| Proofreading |
Correct technical errors.
- Identify and correct misspellings, typos, incorrect punctuation and grammar, errors in word usage.
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| Copy Editing |
Check style and consistency.
- Proofread, review formatting, consistency in titles, subsection titles, typeface and typestyle (italic, bold).
- Fact-check. Ensure manuscript conforms to the style guide the publisher requires, e.g., AMA, APA, AP or Chicago.
- Suggest improvements in the syntax for clarity and logical flow, query only. No substantive changes in content.
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| Substantive Editing |
Clarify, tighten and polish.
- All of the above, but also includes content edit suggestions/changes of what to delete, rearrange or rephrase to eliminate confusion, cliche, wordiness, and inappropriate or confusing jargon.
- Query author about gaps, contradictions, and issues as it relates to content purpose, whether intended or inadvertently raised but not directly addressed by the author.
- Suggest improvement for flow of ideas and narrative arc.
- May include suggestions on when to combine copy from multiple authors to achieve a more consistent tone.
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| Developmental Writing |
Define and develop the project from start to finish.
- Establish purpose and conceptualize raw material at an early draft stage.
- Develop the narrative and its components and segments.
- Consult with the organization of material and format, propose supplemental material as needed, including appendices, graphics, photos, tables, charts or figures.
- Includes business curation, marketing communications, and social media marketing.
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