Rates and Fees
Manuscripts
I usually charge by the word, which is based on an hourly rate of $50 CAD ($60 to $75 for heavier edits, and $150 per hour for specialized edits or rush jobs). Once I have calculated the per-word rate, I multiply that per-word rate—for example, 3.5 cents—by the number of words in the manuscript. This per-word rate gives you a base quote going into the job, which will provide you with peace of mind as you move forward with the process. You pay for the exact number of words that I edit. I am also happy to charge by the hour, which can be more economical in some situations.
For proofreading, which is the final step in the process after all editing and copy editing have been completed, I charge between 2.5 cents and 3 cents per word. For a manuscript that I have previously edited—that is the final editing pass to be completed just after I have edited your manuscript—the proofreading rate will be 10 percent lower than your hourly rate ($45 per hour in the case of light edits, etc.).
Please note that while many clients refer to copy editing as proofreading, in terms of professional editing services, proofreading is not equivalent to copy editing or editing. Where the copy editing and editing processes include making revisions to the substance and structure of a text, proofreading is meant to check for errors in textual and visual elements (such as minor spelling or punctuation mistakes, checking page numbers against content and page references, and consistency of font type or size). Proofreading is not a substitute for editing.
I also offer manuscript evaluation (evaluating technique and style, clarity, voice, tone, reading level and audience appropriateness) and can create or edit marketing copy, however these services can incur additional costs.
Additional Services
Manuscript Evaluation Service
My Manuscript Evaluation Service provides writers with advice on their manuscripts. Detailed evaluations include comments on the content of a manuscript, including but not necessarily limited to characterization, dialogue, setting, and believability; comments on the writing technique, including style, voice and technique; developmental comments; and responses to a total of three (3) specific questions submitted by the author (as submitted at the time of contract finalization).
Note: Manuscript Evaluation is NOT a part of the proofreading/copy editing process. If you choose to engage my services for Manuscript Evaluation ONLY, your manuscript may be returned to you containing no additional editorial comments/corrections.
Generation of Marketing Materials
Considering self-publication? I can assist by either editing or generating back cover copy or blurbs for online retailer listings.
How I Calculate My Rates
Several factors affect the cost of editing your manuscript. In addition to the number of words, I look at the extent of editing required, quantifying the edits based on the amount of grammatical or wording issues in the text. I also take into account the amount of “structural” editing required—that is, the number of changes or suggestions that need to be made on the logic, flow, or overall organization of the manuscript as well as any actual restructuring, which can involve moving or re-crafting sentences or rearranging chapters or sections of your manuscript. I will ask you to review all suggested changes to ensure that the sense is intact, and your voice and intent are not lost. Using Microsoft Word's track changes function, changes are tracked (in a different colour) so that you can readily find them.
The per-word cost of your edit will generally fall into one of the following categories:
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Light edit (copy edit): 3.5-4 cents per word ($50 to $55/hr)
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Medium edit (substantive edit): 4.1-5 cents per word ($55 to $65/hr)
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Heavy edit (developmental edit): 5.1-13 cents per word ($65 to $75/hr)
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Proofreading (after the above editing has been completed): 2.5-2.8 cents per word ($45 to $55 per hour)
A light edit is typically limited to edits on the word and sentence structure level and would not require substantive rewriting. A medium edit can include making revisions and suggestions based on structural issues on the sentence and paragraph level. A heavy edit can include all of the above, plus structural issues on a document level, such as making suggestions intended to help clarify plot, characterization, or thematic elements, as well as revising, reordering, cutting or expanding material, which calls for a more nuanced and in-depth understanding of the text.
Pricing for Manuscript Evaluation Service
For works of Prose (books, essays, etc.)
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For submissions of up to 10 pages in length: $120
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For full manuscripts: $120 for the first 10 pages + $2/page thereafter (e.g., for a 250 page manuscript = $120 + (240 x $2) = $600
For works of Poetry
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For up to 10 poems = $60
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Each additional poem above 10 is an additional $5
Pricing for Creating/Editing Marketing Materials
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One (1) 100 to 200 word blurb to be used either on the back of your book or as a listing on a seller's website: $55
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You may request a maximum of 3 additional different options (total of 4 blurbs) for an additional $15 ($5 each)
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If you have already created marketing materials of your own (such as cover copy, website listing copy, and/or an author bio) I will edit and provide feedback on a maximum of 3 versions of each for a flat fee of $75. Each additional version (up to 10) is an additional $10
Minimum and Rush Jobs
I accept small jobs, but have a minimum order fee of $50 CAD for projects that are 1,000 words or less.
Once you confirm that you want me to proceed with your project, I usually guarantee that for jobs under 75,000 words the edited manuscript will be returned to you within 2 to 3 weeks. However, if you require a faster turnaround I may be able to accommodate rush jobs based on my current workload. Rush deliveries incur surcharges of 30 to 50% of the total fee based on the word count of the document and the proximity of the deadline to the date when I officially accept the project.
I Offer Competitive Pricing
Because I want to help as many content creators as possible, I make an effort to be competitive with our pricing. Since I am a lone freelancer and not a member of a big company, I can work with my clients directly in order to offer them the best value. As a result, I am willing to consider matching or besting a competitor’s price. Please inquire for more information.
Payment Methods
I accept payment via PayPal, Stripe, e-transfer, and cheque (letter mail). Please let me know in advance if you would like to pay via cheque.