What I can do.

I have completed courses in both copy-editing and proofreading run by the Publishing Training Centre and the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading. I can use the 2005 BSI symbols to proofread hard copy and I can edit on-screen using 'Track Changes' in Microsoft Word. I also use specially created stamps when proofreading in Adobe Acrobat.

Subjects

Fiction (general, literary, crime/mystery/thrillers, historical, romantic, science fiction/fantasy/horror, short stories), non-fiction (general, memoir, biography), information science and technology, computer technology/software/hardware (internet, IT security, technical support), literary studies(critical editions, literary criticism), sport (cricket, football, general).

Copy-editing

Copy-editors do a lot more than just correct errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, style and usage. I will do the following;

• Check for consistency. I will check that your work is consistent throughout, both in style and content. If there is a particular house-style that you need to use, I can make sure that your work complies with it.

• Clarity and readability. I will check that your text is clear, precise and readable and I will suggest amendments if necessary.

• Accuracy. I will check that names of people and things are all correct and, if requested by the client, can include fact-checking as well.
• In works of fiction, I will check the narrative for any inconsistencies in the plot, characters or pacing.
• Fact-checking to make sure any facts in the manuscript are accurate. 

I will also produce a full report and a style-sheet on your piece of work detailing any suggestions and recommendations that I make.


Proofreading

When proofreading your document I will complete the following:

•   Identify spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors.
•   Check for consistency in spelling and hyphenation, using a style guide if supplied.
•   Read for clarity and sense and check for inconsistencies in the text.
•   Remove or suggest alternatives to awkward or confusing word, column, or page breaks.
•   Look for inconsistencies in the use of fonts, headings, paragraphs and layout.
•   Check cross-references, and check chapter headings with the table of contents.
•   Check references in the text against footnotes, endnotes etc.
•   Make sure that illustrations or tables and their captions match with each other and the text.
•   Mark any queries I cannot resolve for further consultation.