Proofreading

Let the Nit-Pickery Begin!

For most people the idea of pouring over a manuscript, searching out a single misplaced comma, sounds maddening. “Bah!” I say. As a self-confessed control-freak, I relish the level of precision and exactitude that goes into proofreading.

During the proofreading stage, I check for grammar, spelling, and usage issues. I also check for consistency issues, such as character descriptions, name spelling (especially you fancy sci-fi/fantasy types), timelines, and just about anything that might cause your reader to say, “Hey, wait. Wasn’t she…?” while madly flipping back several pages.

Proofreading is done at the end of the editing process.

What Proofreading Does & Does Not Do

  • Focus on mechanics of the project
    • Continuity
      • Names
      • Non-English Words
    • Grammar
    • Spelling
    • Punctuation
    • Chicago Manual of Style or In-House Style if you/your publisher prefers
  • Not concerned with content issues
    • Remaining plot holes
    • Wonky timelines
    • Scene issues
    • Character motivations
    • Story stakes

The Process

  1. Send me your project and any style sheet, guide or book wiki you have
  2. We will coordinate about scheduling and pricing.
  3. I will fully proofread your project. I will send you the document(s) listed below.
  4. You will have a chance to address concerns, ask follow-up questions, and discuss revisions options, either via email or scheduled call/video chat.

What You Receive from Me

  • A fully edited version of your project. All changes will be clearly marked. It will be up to you to accept or rejected suggested revisions.

What I Need from You