Proofreading is the final stage of the editing process. It involves carefully checking a document for surface-level errors such as spelling, grammar, punctuation and formatting inconsistencies. The goal is to ensure your text is polished, professional and ready for publication or submission. It’s not just a quick skim – it’s a detailed review to catch those last mistakes that might otherwise be missed.
Turnaround times depend on the length and complexity of the document. Proofreading isn’t just a quick readthrough; it involves a careful, line-by-line check for grammar, spelling, punctuation, consistency and clarity. A clear time estimate will be provided before any work begins – and if you have a specific deadline, this can usually be accommodated.
Not quite! While all types of editing aim to improve a piece of writing, they focus on different aspects of the text.
Line editing focuses on the style and flow of your writing. It improves clarity, tone, and sentence structure to make your message more effective and engaging.
Copy editing checks for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and consistency. It ensures your writing is technically correct and follows appropriate style conventions.
Substantive editing (also known as structural or developmental editing) involves making major changes to content, structure, and organisation — such as rewriting or rearranging sections. This is not a service currently offered.
In summary, line editing enhances expression, copy editing ensures accuracy, and substantive editing reshapes the content.
The short answer is yes!
If you're aiming to present your writing professionally and clearly – a proofreader can make all the difference. Whether you're submitting an academic paper, preparing a business report, writing a letter, or creating website content, a proofreader will check for grammar, spelling, punctuation and consistency to ensure your work is accurate, polished, and ready to be shared with confidence.
Absolutely! Whether English is your second language or you simply want to improve your writing, proofreading and editing can help make your text clear, correct and easy to understand.
File Types & Edits:
Word documents
All edits are made using Microsoft Word’s Track Changes feature. You’ll receive two versions of your document:
Where appropriate helpful, constructive feedback will be provided, so you understand what’s been changed – and why.
PDFs
The way PDFs are marked up depends on the type of file you provide:
Unsure of what service you need? Get in touch.
If possible, please also upload a sample of the document (up to 500 words). This will help me assess the text and make tailored recommendations for the most suitable service.
No! Confidentiality is taken very seriously. All documents and communications are handled with care and discretion:
Yes! Punctiliously is a real English adverb. It means doing something very carefully and paying close attention to detail – which perfectly reflects the care taken in proofreading and editing.
If you have a question about any of my services. Please get in touch via the Contact page