FAQs
These are some of the most common questions I’m asked. Do you have any other questions? Email me!
Q: What’s your turnaround time?
A: For proofreading, I will return your proofread essay within two three days—often sooner than that. If you need it faster, you can pay a rush fee of $50 and if my schedule allows, I will make it happen. For editing and development, I work closely with you on an ongoing basis, checking in at agreed-upon deadlines.
Q: Ack! I left my essay to the last minute, and now my application is due this week! Can you help?!
A: I guess you don’t need a lecture from me to know you shouldn’t leave things to the last minute! I do the best I can to accommodate all clients, but because the application deadlines are often the same for everyone, I might be booked. I will never take on more than I can reasonably finish. I can refer you to my extremely talented colleagues, however! Message me and we’ll try to figure it out.
Q: What’s the difference between proofreading and editing?
A: Some people say that proofreading is a science and editing is an art. A proofreader follows specific rules and style guidelines to perfect an already written essay, providing an essential final check on grammar, spelling, punctuation, and syntax. Editing, on the other hand, occurs earlier in the writing process, while you’re still developing your theme and working out what you want to say in your essay. Editors help the writer improve the overall quality of writing, enhance structure and flow, improve clarity, and ensure consistency of tone and voice. (Back to Services.)
Q: Are essays the only thing you proofread and edit?
A: Not by a long shot. I love helping people perfect their college application essays, but I also have tons of experience with other proofreading, copyediting, and copywriting services, from websites to business correspondence to cover letters and resumes to magazine articles to crafting a perfect ad for your local paper to making sure your social media profile is error-free. I’ve edited and proofread fiction and nonfiction books. I’ve even helped people write a family holiday letter that strikes just the right tone. If you can write it, I can edit it and proofread it. (And if you can’t write it, I can help with that too!)
Q: Can I see your resume?
A: Yep! I have a Bachelor of English from Emory University and decades of professional editing, proofreading, and copywriting experience. Check out my LinkedIn profile to see my work history. And be sure to see the Testimonials on this site to read what some of my clients and colleagues have said about me.
Q: What if I’m not able to meet with you in person?
A: If you live somewhere other than the Chicagoland area, or if it’s just not convenient to meet in person, we can work remotely by sharing a Google doc and having a phone, Zoom, or Facetime conversation.