Writing & Editing
Need help writing or editing something? Let me handle it.
I've been a writer for almost as long as I can remember. Over the years, I've written and edited many types of material, including web content, articles, blog entries, newsletters, and more. My creative writing includes screenplays, comedy sketches, stand-up routines, poetry, and short stories. On certain projects, I've collaborated with other writers, producers, and directors. I've also provided comprehensive feedback to fellow writers in writing groups.
“What do I need a writer for? Anybody can write good enough.”
If you needed surgery, "good enough" wouldn't cut it. Like surgery, effective writing requires knowledge and experience. Poor writing implies a lack of professionalism to many people, which may cost you business. So don't rely on just anybody – hire me instead. I'd love to discuss the details of your project. Once I know exactly what you need, I'll give you a quote.
"Why should I hire an editor? I’ve got spell check."
Even if you've got the writing covered, you still need an expert pair of eyes to double-check your material. Mistakes hurt your credibility and can cost you more to fix later. Although spell check can be helpful, it can’t detect whether your material flows well, is formatted correctly, or conforms to specific style guidelines. Unfortunately, spell check programs also do a poor job of distinguishing proper usage.
Don't believe me? Copy and paste this sentence into your word processor and see how many errors your spell check finds:
Only using spell Czech is a grate weigh to mist lots of miss steaks.
Mine didn't catch any. How about yours?
"What types of editing do you provide?"
On work that's nearly ready for its intended use, I'm happy to handle copy editing. Copy editing ensures that your writing is easy to read and understand. Rather than a major overhaul of a draft, it's a minor clean-up correcting errors in style, usage, and punctuation. When copy editing your material, I can either mark up a hard copy or edit an electronic file.
For rougher drafts, I can also provide substantive editing. This could involve reorganizing your work's structure, improving clarity and accuracy, and discussing issues of concern. Rewriting to improve flow, readability, and presentation could also be necessary. Because a substantive edit involves your content as well as how it's written, you may need someone with experience in your subject matter, particularly if it's academic, scientific, or technical in nature. If you think that may be the case with your project, we can discuss the particulars to determine whether I can assist you.
Whichever type of editing you require, if you want someone else to polish your work for you, drop me a line. I'll be happy to make your diamond-in-the-rough shine.
