Copy editing means a line-by-line edit for grammatical or punctuation errors, incorrect facts, anomalies, syntax, and typos. A copyedit may not address big-picture issues (such as characterization or plot in fiction, or specialty subject matter in nonfiction), but it will polish the writing to be consistent and grammatically correct. Unless otherwise noted, I’ll use the Chicago Manual of Style and the Merriam-Webster Dictionary. I will create a style sheet for your project based on these guides. Edits will be made in MS Word using Track Changes.

Proofreading means a line-by-line edit for a document that has already been professionally copyedited. The manuscript might be in MS Word, or I can edit a PDF if it's already in layout. I’ll read for grammatical and punctuation errors, incorrect facts, anomalies, syntax, and typos. Since it has already been copyedited, the read will go faster, but I’ll still scrutinize every sentence and will take the time to look up and verify things that catch my eye. A proofread will not address big-picture issues (such as characterization or plot in fiction, or specialty subject matter in nonfiction), but it will polish the writing to be consistent and grammatically correct. Since the piece should already be edited, I will adhere to the style guide already established by the copy editor. When in doubt, I’ll refer to the Chicago Manual of Style and the Merriam-Webster Dictionary. 

 I love words and how they fit together to emit emotion, expression, and information. Each writer has their own way of working with words. I can’t wait to see what you’ve written. 

I am a skilled and conscientious copyeditor with more than twenty years of experience writing, editing, proposal writing, proofreading, and document preparation. I am a certified copy editor, proficient in the Chicago Manual of Style. I have helped my clients with fiction, nonfiction, short stories, self-help books, blogs, and business documents.