The proofreading process is the final step in your editing journey – you’re so close to the end! As a proofreader, my role is to make this process as smooth and stress free as possible. In this blog, I share my system from initial contact to final deliverables. 

1. Initial Email

If you have a project you would like to have proofread, you can get in touch via email or contact form. I work across fiction and non-fiction genres and I’m happy to discuss projects of varying length. If you can provide me with some more information about your project including the project’s genre, length, time frame for editing, and your budget, I can ascertain how I can be of assistance. 

If I am unable to help for any reason, a scheduling conflict for example, I will always refer you elsewhere. For this reason, it is always a good idea to get in touch with an editor or proofreader in advance. Not all editors can start work immediately on a project. If they can, you may be charged a ‘rush’ rate, which is always worth keeping in mind. 

2. Free Sample Edit

If I feel I can be of assistance, I will offer you a free sample proofread of up to 1,500 words (for shorter projects the length of the sample edit will vary). This allows me to understand the scope of the project and provide an accurate cost estimate. It is also an opportunity for you to decide if you feel my editing style is the right fit for you. Neither of us are obligated to engage in the full project at this stage. 

3. Agreement & Deposit

If you are happy with the sample proofread, and we would both like to proceed, we will discuss a timeline that works for us both. I will send you a terms of service agreement and an invoice for the non-refundable deposit. Once this has been signed by both of us, and the deposit has been paid, you will have engaged my services.

At this point, we can discuss any queries or concerns you may have. You will then send me the full project in time for the start date. 

4. Proofread Starts

Once I have received your full project, I will start the proofread. Usually, I work in Word using track changes, but I can also work in PDF. I will work to our agreed timeline and provide weekly progress updates via email, as well as raise any queries as they come up.

5. Proofread Project Returned

Once complete, I will return your fully proofread project with any other agreed deliverables such as a style sheet indicating any stylistic choices. You can then implement any suggested changes when you are ready.

6. Final Invoice & Email Support

The final invoice will be sent along with the deliverables. It is important to me that you are happy with the service provided. I will therefore be available via email to offer guidance and answer any queries you may have about the suggested edits as you work through them.

You can read more about my proofreading services. If you are unsure if you require a copyedit or proofread, you can read my blog post on this.

If you would like to discuss engaging my proofreading services, or if you have any questions, please get in touch at susannahbutler.edits@gmail.com.