Let's work together.
The Process
Exploratory Call
no-obligation, 15-minute chat about your project and the impact you want to have.
Assessment
Once I understand the scope, length, complexity, and timeline, I’ll provide a written estimate.
Scheduling
After all your questions are answered and you agree to the estimate, it’s time to schedule the work.
Collaboration Begins
I focus on delivering impactful, user-centred communications that help you advance your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you charge?
We’ll discuss your goals and the work required to fully meet those goals. If you need to keep to a certain budget, we’ll prioritize the work and focus on what is most important.
I’ll provide a detailed, written estimate for your project, so you know what your cost is, no matter how much time I spend. Once you accept the estimate, I’ll invoice for 50% upfront. The remainder is payable on completion.
For grants, if you meet certain criteria, I charge 50% upfront, and I defer payment of the balance until you get the grant. If you don’t get the grant, I won’t invoice the rest. (Yes, you read that right. 😊)
How much time will my editing project need?
Although an estimate will be provided, Amy Einsohn and Marilyn Schwartz’s The Copyeditor’s Handbook, Fourth Edition (University of California Press, 2019) provides the following guide for estimating the amount of time a particular project may take:
- Substantive, structural, or stylistic editing of a difficult text: 1 to 2 pages/hour
- Substantive, structural, or stylistic editing of a standard text: 2 to 3 pages/hour
- Copy editing a difficult text: 2 to 4 pages/hour
- Copy editing a standard text: 4 to 7 pages/hour
- Proofreading a difficult text: 4 to 6 pages/hour
- Proofreading a standard text: 6 to 9 pages/hour
(Note that a “page” in this source equates to 250 words.) Learn more about editing rates here.
Do you accept rush jobs?
If my schedule allows, I will take on your project with no rush surcharge. If I cannot accommodate your deadline, I will try to make a referral.
What software do you use for editing?
Typically, structural and stylistic editing are done in Microsoft Word. Copy editing can be done with Word or hard copy. Proofreading is done using your proof files or hard copy.
Do you work on retainer?
Yes, I am happy to be your on-call editor and writer. You choose how many hours of my time you want to pre-book per month, and we set up an auto-payment for an agreed amount. Your work gets priority, with a guaranteed 72-hour turnaround for short jobs, and a response within 72 hours to assess and schedule longer jobs. Unused hours cannot be carried over and payment will not be refunded, since the time is held for you.
Is pre-booking required?
If you have an upcoming project that is time-sensitive, then pre-booking my time is recommended. I will invoice 50% when you accept the quote, to reserve the time in my schedule. This deposit is non-refundable unless you provide written cancellation 21 days in advance; if this occurs, 75% of your deposit will be refunded.
What payment methods do you accept?
I invoice using PayPal. I prefer payment through Interac e-Transfer; however, you can also pay through PayPal in a variety of ways.
Do you charge tax?
Canadian clients are charged the tax that is appropriate to their province or territory; international clients will not be charged tax.