All completed manuscripts need to be worked up before publication. Raw text will always need copy-editing and proofreading to eliminate all errors, including grammar and spelling. The manuscript may need more input than that though, as an expert editor can if necessary polish the text by improving the narrative flow, eliminating repetitions and clumsy use of language, to lift the prose to a further level before publishing.
Editing
Our two editing services are copy-editing (sometimes known as line editing) and manuscript polishing.
Manuscript polishing
Our polishing service aims to enhance the text, by:
- improving sentence structure for clarity or narrative flow,
- fixing problems with style, continuity and logic,
- making sure the style is right for the subject matter and ensuring that the style is consistent throughout,
- reworking turns of phrase to avoid ambiguity or clichés,
- eliminating clumsy use of language,
- helping you develop and expand any sections that would benefit from doing so.
Copy-editing
Our copy-editing service does not involve so much rewriting for enhancement, but as well as everything needed for professional proofreading, we will also ensure that there are no errors or mistakes, repetitions, questionable word choices and other problems that can blemish a text, and make sure that everything in the book is consistent, whether fiction or fact.
Proofreading
Once you have the final version of your manuscript completed and ready for publication, the next step is to ensure that everything in the text is perfect. Every manuscript requires proofreading. Some manuscripts are in a very raw state and full of small errors, while others have been worked on, read and re-read and amended by the author so that they have already been corrected – and there will always be some things that the author has missed! All manuscripts need a professional proofreader’s attention before going to press. We will ensure that there are no errors of any sort at all, and that the published text is perfect throughout. Our proofreader will:
- ensure that all spelling is correct throughout the manuscript;
- check all grammar to make sure that everything is as it should be;
- check all punctuation;
- ensure complete consistency throughout when it comes to variant spellings, American or British English, styles of headings, footnotes and so on;
- make amendments in marked-up format so that you, the author, can check and approve any changes before the book is published.
How much does it cost?
Our basic rate for proofreading is €4.00 per thousand words. So for a manuscript of 80,000 words the basic fee would be €320. Our final fee will depend on the condition of the manuscript and the amount of time and work required.
Our basic rate for copy-editing is €6 per thousand words. So for a manuscript of 80,000 words, our basic fee is €480. The final fee will depend on the condition of the manuscript and the amount of time and work required.
The basic rate for manuscript polishing is €9 per thousand words. So for a manuscript of 80,000 words, the basic fee will be £720. As always, our final fee will depend on the condition of the manuscript and the amount of time and work required. Non-fiction will usually cost more.
Contact us to discuss your manuscript and get an informed quote!