Q. Why do I need an editor for my book or manuscript?

A. You’ve written a book, novel or collection of fiction that you’re really proud of, but you might not be sure it’s compelling or that the grammar works. As an editor, I take your document and read through it as an objective, impartial third party. I put myself in your ideal reader’s shoes and edit for content, tone and readability. I make sure all spelling and grammar is cleaned up – and I mean really cleaned up. Spell check features are great, but only to a point!

Q. Do you offer copywriting, SEO, blogging or social media services?

A. I do not offer copywriting, SEO, blogging or social media services. I might write an alternate paragraph here and there in our editing work as needed, but that’s the extent of it. I chose to specialize in editing of completed manuscripts and books after completing several projects and finding I did my best work in those areas. This specialization means that my focus is not split by other work, even though the other work may be word-related as well. If you’re looking for a copywriter, blogger or SEO expert, Canadian Freelance Writing Jobs is a great place to start your search.

Q. Why do you charge flat package rates?

A. Quite simply, I charge flat rates on my editing services because it’s easier for both of us. You know exactly how much your project will cost and, well, so do I! I have worked on several book and marketing content editing projects and my rates are based on a number of averages from these projects: The level of editing that was undertaken, the amount of time these edits took and the hourly rate for the work.

Q. What do you consider “a page”?

A. To determine what makes up a page, I use the following guidelines: Double-spaced lines, 11-point font, 1″ margins on all sides.

Q. How do I send you my manuscript? How do you send back changes?

A. Please note that I only accept completed work. Manuscripts can be sent to me via email. In my editing, I use either Word’s or Pages’ Track Changes feature – we can work together seamlessly whether you’re on a Mac or a PC. I send you a copy with changes tracked along with a copy with all my changes incorporated.

Q. Where are you located?

A. I am a Toronto-based freelance editor. However, most of my clients are based elsewhere in Canada. We communicate via email (which I check all the time during my business hours) and send electronic versions of documents back and forth. This means that clients aren’t limited by physical location and choose to work with me because they feel I’m the best editor for them.

Q. I live outside of Canada. Can we still work together?

A. Absolutely! All my rates are quoted in Canadian dollars, I hold standard office hours in Eastern Standard Time and observe all Canadian stat holidays (though if you have extenuating circumstances regarding your timeline, we can usually work something out in advance). Aside from these three things, it’ll be just like working with a local editor!

Q. How do I contact you?

A. I work virtually, so my policy is to favour email communication over the phone. I’m great with the written word and work best when writing something out or considering written instructions – it’s why I was so terrible in the food service industry! Emails ensure I have all your details and requirements in writing so I can refer to them often when working on your project. You also have a reference point for notes I might have for you. I hold standard office hours in Eastern Standard Time and have my inbox open all day. Email ensures you can leave me questions or comments no matter what time it is for you.