Rates depend on whether proofreading, editing, or copywriting is requested. All jobs are quoted on a project basis. Typically, rates range from $25 - $45 per hour.
Proofreading
Proofreaders are generally expected to check only for errors in spelling, punctuation, and format. Proofreaders also check charts and graphs—and since these are often re-keyed by someone other than the writer, the proofreader may be asked to verify every number against the original.
A proofreader may also be asked to check a revised document against the original, marked-up copy.
Proofreaders need no special subject knowledge but must have an absolutely perfect command of spelling and punctuation and a keen eye. They may also be asked to check spellings of technical terms.
Proofreading project quotes based on $25 per hour (approximately 4 - 8 pages per hour, depending on complexity of material).
Editing
In addition to proofreading, editors address issues of content and style. The document is reviewed with the following questions in mind to ensure that it accomplishes the purpose for which it was written:
- Is the information accurate (to the best of the editor's knowledge)?
- Is the writing clear and easy to understand? (If the editor has difficulty understanding the document, a reader may have difficulty as well.)
- Is the material covered in sufficient depth? Does it adequately address the questions a reader would expect to be answered? Do some items need more explanation? Do some need less?
- Is the material presented in a logical, orderly fashion, or do some items need to be rearranged or reprioritized?
- Are names and technical terms spelled correctly and consistently? Are abbreviations and acronyms used appropriately and consistently? Are technical terms and acronyms explained?
- Is the writing clear and effective? (The editor may deal with grammatical issues such as awkward or run-on sentences, rambling prose, unclear phrases, etc.) Depending on the writer’s preference, the editor may rework sections, or provide suggestions for the writer.
Good editors and proofreaders will also ensure accuracy of the following:
- Spelling and punctuation (including hyphenation accuracy)
- General grammar issues, such as sentence structure, noun/verb agreement, parallel construction, etc.
- Correct word use (e.g., which vs. that, imply vs. infer, etc.)
- Consistent spelling (e.g., noting whether a writer hyphenates a word in some cases but not in others, or uses different abbreviations or acronyms for the same term)
- Consistent use of numerical terms, numbers, dates, etc. (e.g., making sure that the writer doesn't say "11PM" in one sentence and "12:00a.m." in the next)
Editing project quotes based on $35 per hour (approximately 2 - 5 pages per hour, depending on complexity of material).
Copywriting
Following guidelines provided by the client, a copywriter writes a document “from scratch” (usually to inform or persuade the reader). The copywriter may use information and research provided by the client, or may conduct research on his/her own.
Copywriting project quotes based on $45 per hour--$55 per hour when extensive research is required—(approximately 2 - 4 pages per hour, depending on complexity of material).
After the first round of proofreading, editing or copywriting is submitted to client for approval, a second round will be provided at no extra charge. Third round and beyond will be billed at usual fee.
A 25% fee will be added to Rush Jobs.
|
|
- Booklets
- Brochures
- Company Histories
- Content Development/Copywriting
- Direct Mail Campaigns
- Individual Biographies
- Letters
- Marketing Manuals
- Press releases
- Proposals
- Reports
- Speeches
|