Proofreading

Spelling, punctuation, grammar & consistency

What is proofreading?

Proofreading as a stand-alone service should be a final check for any errors remaining after previous rounds of edits or other checks. When I proofread a document, I make corrections to the following:

  • spelling

  • grammar

  • punctuation

  • layout consistency, eg, spacing between words, paragraphs and sections

  • style consistency, eg, the treatment of names, dates, headings

I also flag up anything I can’t understand, because if I can’t understand it, I can’t know whether it needs the above corrections.

I offer proofreading for fiction or non-fiction, web copy, memoir, academic assignments, or any other type of writing; the process is the same.

Proofreading prices

I aim to charge a proofreading rate that’s fair for your writing. The following is a typical range. The charge for your work may be slightly lower or higher; the more polishing you can do before you send it to me, the less it will cost.

Proofreading cost per 1,000 words: £10 - £14

Proofreading usually covers between 2,500 and 3,500 words per hour.

I am more than happy to give an estimate or firm quote before you commit yourself. To do this, I need to see your writing. There’s more info on my Prices page:

Learn more

What affects proofreading prices?

The following factors (in no particular order) increase proofreading time, and therefore the cost:

  • First draft (ie, a draft that has had no revision or editing)

  • PDF rather than a Word or Pages document

  • Complex structure, eg, quotes, footnotes, nested subheadings, captions, tables

  • Not formatted consistently

  • English is not your first language

  • Website copy

  • References/Bibliography

  • Poetry

I will proofread whatever you send me in English! However, for more guidance, I recommend my blog Are you really ready for proofreading?

Is proofreading the same as editing?

The short answer: no. Proofreading only deals with matters of language correctness, and consistent appearance. It ensures a text that’s written in accurate English. However, making writing accurate does not guarantee that it’s suitable for its purpose.

Proofreading does not cover clarity, conciseness, tone, flow or fact consistency; these come under editing, which should be done before proofreading. Please see the Editing page for more details.

Please note: For academic assignments, I offer proofreading only.