Editing and proofreading

Are you an author or publisher looking for an experienced editor or proofreader to work on your book or paper?

Copyediting
I can help to get your text ready for the next stage of the publishing process. As well as checking for grammar, spelling and punctuation errors, I will make suggestions for improvements to readability, structure and consistency.

Line editing
If your manuscript needs a little more work before it is ready for copyediting, I can sharpen up sentences and paragraphs so the language is crisp and clear, while also remaining sensitive to your individual voice and writing style.

Structural editing
If you need advice on organising your material, from the big picture of structuring chapters to the flow of sections and paragraphs, I can help to improve the coherence of your manuscript.

Proofreading
I can provide a final quality check to correct any niggling errors so that your work is the best it can be, whether it appears in print or online.

My experience
I have 25 years of experience in book and journal publishing, local and regional newspapers, and business-to-business magazines. Since specialising in non-fiction, trade and academic in 2006, I have worked on over 400 books and amassed some outstanding references which illustrate my professionalism, thoughtful approach to editing and compassionate approach with authors.

Testimonials

‘I have written hundreds of papers, chapters of books and books for many publishers in my long career, and I have never encountered a copyeditor as good as Emma.’
The late Sir Tim Brighouse, author and educator

‘Emma works very efficiently with authors, effectively conveying her suggestions and recommendations with clarity, tact and diplomacy.’
David Bowman, managing director, Crown House Publishing

‘It is my profound hope that Emma will be the only editor I will ever work with. She is skilled, respectful, knowledgeable and talented. With Emma, the editing process is delicate, subtle and a genuine learning experience.’
Phil Beadle, teacher and author

‘Emma is a joy to work with – she is thorough, patient and endlessly resourceful in helping the final text meet its purpose. She is methodical in approach and works hard to maintain the integrity of the author’s intention.’
Professor Mick Waters, author and former director of curriculum, Qualifications and Curriculum Authority

‘Whenever I am at the stage of a new book being sent off for its final copyedit, there is always a sense of excitement that we are entering the final strait. When I learn that Emma will be doing the copyedit, that is also matched with both a sigh of relief that it will be a job done thoroughly and a frisson of terror in knowing any fudging, inconsistency or unsubstantiated assertions will soon be exposed by Emma’s eagle eyes.’
Ian Gilbert, author and series editor, Independent Thinking Press

‘From the first moment, I knew I was in safe hands. Her attention to detail was extraordinary, as was her grasp of the big picture. The book was improved massively by Emma’s input. I feel privileged to have benefited from Emma’s expertise and when I write my second book, she is the first person I will approach.’
Stephen Baker, education adviser and author

‘Emma’s diligent attention to detail is invaluable, and her suggestions for text changes have been excellent. I especially welcomed the effort she helpfully, and creatively, made around proposed amendments. I am grateful for all her hard work, intelligence and timeliness, all of which made a real impact.’
Professor Anthony Kessel, author and clinical director, NHS England

‘Emma is thorough, thoughtful and deeply knowledgeable and leaves no stone unturned in her efforts to ensure accuracy of content and quality of writing. She is also very patient and explains her thinking well, so that communication is clear and supportive. My books are better because of her.’
Dr Debra Kidd – author, teacher and teacher trainer