Frequently asked questions

Everything you
need to know.

Everything you need to know about my editing process, turnaround times, rates and how we work together to polish your writing.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it usually take to proofread a full thesis or report?

Turnaround times depend entirely on my current diary bookings and the density of your text. As a general rule, a comprehensive review of a 70,000 to 100,000-word thesis requires roughly 2 to 3 weeks. Short articles, policy briefs, or individual chapters can often be turned around in 3 to 5 working days. If you are working towards a rigid deadline, it is always best to reserve your slot in my diary a few months in advance.

How long does it usually take to proofread a full thesis or report?

Turnaround times depend entirely on my current diary bookings and the density of your text. As a general rule, a comprehensive review of a 70,000 to 100,000-word thesis requires roughly 2 to 3 weeks. Short articles, policy briefs, or individual chapters can often be turned around in 3 to 5 working days. If you are working towards a rigid deadline, it is always best to reserve your slot in my diary a few months in advance.

What format do I need to send my files in?

I work almost exclusively with Microsoft Word documents (.docx). This allows me to use the Track Changes feature so you can see the modifications, corrections and editorial suggestions clearly. If your project involves complex layouts or tables from other software, please mention this when you get in touch.

How do your rates work if my final word count changes slightly?

Don’t worry – because my pricing is based on your word count, simply let me know the actual figure before your agreed start date. I will adjust your invoice to match the exact number of words you delivered.

Do you offer rapid or weekend turnarounds for urgent work?

Depending on my current editorial commitments, I can occasionally accommodate express
turnarounds for short reports or journal articles. These are evaluated on a case-by-case basis so get in touch to check my availability.

Are my unpublished data and research documents safe with you?

Absolutely. Your research integrity and privacy are paramount. I operate under secure data parameters, treat every document with absolute professional discretion, and am always happy to sign a standard non-disclosure or confidentiality agreement before we begin.

How long does it usually take to proofread a full thesis or report?

Turnaround times depend entirely on my current diary bookings and the density of your text. As a general rule, a comprehensive review of a 70,000 to 100,000-word thesis requires roughly 2 to 3 weeks. Short articles, policy briefs, or individual chapters can often be turned around in 3 to 5 working days. If you are working towards a rigid deadline, it is always best to reserve your slot in my diary a few months in advance.

Can you ensure it matches a specific style guide or referencing style?

Navigating formatting rules can be incredibly challenging when you are trying to finish your writing. Whether your institution or publisher requires Harvard, APA, Chicago or a completely bespoke house style, I can assist with your headings, margins, layouts and referencing down to the very last comma.

Will your editing trigger university plagiarism or AI detectors?

No. My work is strictly ethical and collaborative. I use Microsoft Word’s Track Changes feature to suggest corrections to your original prose. I do not use generative AI tools to rewrite your content, copy-paste your text into external software, or automate your wording. Because every change is a suggestion that you manually accept or reject, the final draft remains entirely your own authentic, human work.

What’s the difference between proofreading and copyediting packages?

Proofreading is a final quality-assurance pass. It focuses on catching surface-level errors such as typos, punctuation mistakes, formatting slips and spelling inconsistencies before a clean draft is submitted. Copyediting goes much deeper – it looks at sentence structure, clarifies awkward or ambiguous phrasing, smooths out transitions between paragraphs, and ensures your academic voice remains consistent and authoritative throughout a complex narrative.

Do you write or rewrite content for students?

No. To respect university academic integrity regulations and the CIEP code of practice, I don’t write, expand your arguments, or conduct research on your behalf. My role is to refine, polish and clarify your existing writing, ensuring your ideas are presented in the best possible light without crossing any ethical boundaries.

How and when do I make payment for my project?

Invoicing takes place on delivery of the final files. Payments can be made securely via standard bank transfer (BACS).