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Proofreading Copyediting Substantive editing Editing for nonnative English speakers Style guide development Writing for brand identity and stewardship Brand books Donor communications Foundational statements Website copy |
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As a freelance professional for 20+ years, I have had the privilege of editing and writing for a wide variety of clients, from students and individual authors to art museums and publishers. Here's a look at the services I offer.
Proofreading, Copyediting, and Substantive Editing
While proofreading involves making sure the text is error free, copyediting goes further. It encompasses correcting all typos, grammatical and formatting errors, and awkward phrasing; ensuring clarity, consistency, and accuracy throughout the manuscript; and offering suggestions related to word choice and readability. If something isn't working, I'll point it out and make recommendations for how to fix it. Some projects require heavier editing, or substantive editing. Others might just need a quick review. I meet each text on its own terms, and I work with an understanding of the author's market and target audience.
I typically edit in Microsoft Word, using the Track Changes feature. I'm also very comfortable marking up PDFs. In all cases, I work within the client’s specifications, adhering to the relevant style guide—or developing one, if necessary. My objective, always, is to strengthen your manuscript while maintaining your vision and voice.
Texts by Nonnative Speakers
I frequently work on texts by nonnative English speakers. As a writer who has lived abroad (in Italy), I understand the difficulties of making yourself understood in a language that isn't your own. I bring sensitivity and instinct to my work with these texts, asking clarifying questions when necessary and offering straightforward options for revision.
Style Guide Development
Editing isn’t just about correcting typos and grammar. It’s about making choices. No matter what I’m editing, I create a style guide to keep track of decisions. I also create formal style guides for organizations. These documents set out all guidelines for writing, from capitalization and comma usage to the treatment of numbers and plurals. Having a style guide is key to creating a cohesive voice, which in turn is essential to brand identity.
Writing
I also offer writing services, with a focus on brand building and stewardship. While I am not a branding professional, I have worked closely with multiple PR firms, and I know how to craft emotionally resonant copy that's geared toward specific audiences. My experience includes the collaborative development of brand books and foundational statements (purpose, mission, vision, and values); donor appeals and reports; and website copy.
Get in touch
Proofreading, Copyediting, and Substantive Editing
While proofreading involves making sure the text is error free, copyediting goes further. It encompasses correcting all typos, grammatical and formatting errors, and awkward phrasing; ensuring clarity, consistency, and accuracy throughout the manuscript; and offering suggestions related to word choice and readability. If something isn't working, I'll point it out and make recommendations for how to fix it. Some projects require heavier editing, or substantive editing. Others might just need a quick review. I meet each text on its own terms, and I work with an understanding of the author's market and target audience.
I typically edit in Microsoft Word, using the Track Changes feature. I'm also very comfortable marking up PDFs. In all cases, I work within the client’s specifications, adhering to the relevant style guide—or developing one, if necessary. My objective, always, is to strengthen your manuscript while maintaining your vision and voice.
Texts by Nonnative Speakers
I frequently work on texts by nonnative English speakers. As a writer who has lived abroad (in Italy), I understand the difficulties of making yourself understood in a language that isn't your own. I bring sensitivity and instinct to my work with these texts, asking clarifying questions when necessary and offering straightforward options for revision.
Style Guide Development
Editing isn’t just about correcting typos and grammar. It’s about making choices. No matter what I’m editing, I create a style guide to keep track of decisions. I also create formal style guides for organizations. These documents set out all guidelines for writing, from capitalization and comma usage to the treatment of numbers and plurals. Having a style guide is key to creating a cohesive voice, which in turn is essential to brand identity.
Writing
I also offer writing services, with a focus on brand building and stewardship. While I am not a branding professional, I have worked closely with multiple PR firms, and I know how to craft emotionally resonant copy that's geared toward specific audiences. My experience includes the collaborative development of brand books and foundational statements (purpose, mission, vision, and values); donor appeals and reports; and website copy.
Get in touch
