Non-fiction copy editing and proofreading services
You want copy editing and proofreading that will help you stand out, and I can help. You can expect beautifully edited content combined with expert advice to give your writing the right level of polish and professionalism. I’ll copy edit your work so it’s structured well, flows from point to point, gets your key ideas across, and reads perfectly. Naturally, I’ll also proofread your writing for grammar, spelling, word use, and punctuation to make sure it’s error free.
My non-fiction copy editing and proofreading services are ideal if:
Your writing needs to make a great first impression with readers, clients, or customers.
You’re publishing your content and want to make sure there are no grammatical mistakes.
You’re submitting work for a qualification, certification, or other important goal.
You want to sharpen your writing, make sure it’s focused, and remove duplication and ambiguity.
You want your audience to take a specific action after reading your content.
You need advice and editorial guidance to strengthen the text.
I edit and proofread all types, lengths, formats, and styles of non-fiction content including manuscripts, books, reports, websites, online content, documents, articles, essays, dissertations, guides, presentations, and manuals. If it’s not on this list, ask me.
Get an instant non-fiction copy editing and proofreading quote
Why non-fiction copy editing and proofreading matters
Every writer wants their work to succeed, but sometimes you need another professional to help you transform your words into something powerful. I copy edit and proofread from the viewpoint of your audience, and tweak your work so that it gets to your points quickly and easily. I specialize in non-fiction editing because good, fact-based, engaging ideas deserve to be read and will help you get the results you want.
How I provide non-fiction copy editing and proofreading
I make sure the whole proofreading and editing experience is fast, simple, and effortless for you. I read through your work so I understand it, then go through your writing line by line, making the specialized proofreading and editing changes that your content needs. I provide feedback, comments, and advice to strengthen the work. Finally, I complete a second read of the entire piece to make sure it’s error free. I track all of my edits so you can see exactly what I’ve changed.
What to expect when you work with me
With over 20 years of experience as a professional proofreader and editor, I know how important it is to provide freelance editing services you can trust. I have a fast, friendly, and reliable approach — that means means clear, open communication, always meeting deadlines, high-quality, personalized editing, and providing advice and support throughout.
See the types of non-fiction proofreading and editing projects I work on
Here's a selection of non-fiction writing and content that I edit and proofread.
I specialize in non-fiction editing for certain areas
Learn about my areas of expertise.
Learn more about what copy editors do and my copy editing services.
Frequently asked questions for non-fiction editing and proofreading
I’ve answered some of the more common questions about my editing and proofreading services below. If your question isn’t covered, please get in touch and I’d be happy to help.
What experience do you have as an editor?
I have a degree and postgraduate qualifications in journalism and copy editing, and have been editing for over 20 years. In my career I’ve been a managing editor of several scientific and academic peer-reviewed journals, an editorial director, and since 2006, a full-time, freelance copy editor and proofreader. I have a wide range of expertise across multiple subjects and I proofread and edit hundreds of pieces of work every year. I’ve shared more details on my background and experience.
What expertise do you have in non-fiction copy editing and proofreading?
I copy edit and proofread all types of non-fiction content. I’ve given examples for some of the work I edit above and you can find testimonials on my services here. I’m also happy to provide further information on non-fiction proofreading and copy editing, contact me here.
How long does it take you to copy edit, proofread, and return non-fiction work?
It depends on the length of the work and how busy I am with other proofreading or editing. I normally aim to return work within five working days, although if you need it back more quickly please let me know and we’ll agree on a deadline.
Do you edit fiction work like novels or short stories?
I only edit non-fiction work. The skills and approach of a fiction and a non-fiction copy editor are very different, so I specialize in non-fiction because that’s where my experience and expertise is. I edit multiple types of work including business content, academic writing, books, reports, documents, and manuscripts.
Do you write or create original non-fiction content?
I polish, edit, and proofread non-fiction work that’s already been written. If you need a writer to create original content, please contact me and I’d be happy to provide some suggestions.
What type of advice do you offer?
I offer practical, focused advice and suggestions to help you strengthen your work. I read through your content as your ideal reader would, and edit your writing to get your points across. If there’s a specific area that I think could be strengthened by you rewriting, clarifying, or otherwise changing your work, I will provide suggestions for improvement. Learn more about how I provide editing advice.
What does your aftercare service provide?
I offer aftercare for your peace of mind. After I return your work, you might make changes based on my comments and suggestions. If you highlight those changes and return the work to me, I will copy edit and proofread them at no extra charge. Learn about my aftercare service.
How do I know if I need non-fiction copy editing or proofreading?
All of my prices include both copy editing and proofreading, so I’ll always edit your work so it’s perfect for your audience, including a complete proofread to make sure it’s error free.
Are your non-fiction editing and proofreading quotes fully inclusive?
All quotes and prices include copy editing and proofreading for a specific number of words. The price includes communicating with you, receiving the work, reading, reviewing, and understanding the content, carrying out two reads, complete editing and proofreading, comments, advice, support, and aftercare. If there ever needs to be a change to the pricing, I would contact you and agree any changes before carrying out any work, but that’s very rare.
Do you edit to US or UK English?
I can edit to either as I am both a US and UK citizen and have lived and worked in the UK and the US. Unless you tell me otherwise, I will edit and proofread to US English.
What document formats do you edit in?
I can edit in Word or Google Docs. If I edit in Word, I will send you two versions of your file — one that tracks all the changes I have made, and one with all those changes "accepted." Under some circumstances I can also proofread PDF documents and PowerPoints using “sticky notes” or the proofreading marks function.
Do you keep my individual writing style and approach?
Yes, I edit with sensitivity to make sure it's your thoughts, ideas, and research that come through. I also ensure your writing is clear, concise, and easy to understand. I edit for flow and comprehension, so you get your point across in the most effective way. It still sounds like you wrote it, only more precise.
Can you edit to a style guide?
Yes, just send the style guide to me, let me know your requirements, and I will edit and proofread to those needs. I am also familiar with many style and reference frameworks, including AP, Chicago, Harvard, and more.
Where can I find out more?
You can find out how I work with you, and about confidentiality, payments, retainer work, non-disclosure agreements, etc. in our terms and conditions. I promise they’re easy to read, and they’re full of information. If you have questions about your individual needs, please get in touch and I’ll be happy to answer them.