Why You Should Hire a Copy-Editor.

Every writer needs no matter what field of writing they write within needs a copy-editor. A copy-editor takes your written material and works into something presentable to the public (or your audience). A copy-editor helps you not look like a total idiot (even I look like one sometimes because I struggle to catch my own errors when typing on the computer). Let's look at what copy-editors do and how you can find one.

What does a copy-editor do besides making you look good?
A copy-editor combs through your written material looking for any errors in accuracy, readability, grammar and spelling errors,  omission, inconsistency and repetition. 

Some of the nit-picky items they look for are:

• spelling
• punctuation
• grammar
• style and usage
• extraneous and annoyingly long sentences
• overuse of italic, bold, capitals, exclamation marks
• passive voice
• weak evidence 
• plot issues
• numbering issues
• changes in POV
• changes in a character's name or physical appearance. 
• redundancy
• appropriate headings

Copy-editors do not proofread your work. You would need to hire somebody for that or use the app Grammarly like I do to check on last minute items. Of course, proofing is a different beast with the use of devices to type. But  typically, a proofreader will compare one copy to another copy to make sure the edits have been made. They may correct last-minute details. Nowadays, many refer to proofreading as checking for spelling and grammar.

How Much Should I Pay a Copy-Editor?
As much as your writing is worth to you. The minimum should be $35/hr, but as much as $100/hr. You can work that out with your copy-editor. Each copy-editor has their own fees.

You can take a look at my fees on my services page. If you would like to hire a copy-editor, email me and we can talk about your project.