In a full copyedit, I check for:
spelling, grammar, syntax, and punctuation
consistency (including character voice and plot continuity in works of fiction – and factual inconsistencies in non-fiction)
readability and flow
your house style or preferred style manual
tone of voice
formatting and heading styles
inclusive language
clarity
any factual errors I notice based on my own general knowledge
structure and presentation (such as your use of bullet points and paragraphs).
Some people see 'line editing' and 'copyediting' as different services. I personally don't, but if you do, just let me know which aspects of the edit you'd like me to focus on.
Rewriting
Beta reading
Proofreading
In-depth fact-checking or research
A critical perspective on your narrative/argument/game mechanics
Developmental editing
Design/layout work
Typesetting
Legal advice
Sensitivity reading (I also do this, but it's a separate service).
You can help me to work well with you by sending me a brief description of what you need in your first email. Here are some questions I often need the answers to:
What is your project about?
Who is your project for?
Any specific issues you would like me to focus on?
Are there any tables, graphs/charts, or illustrations?
Are there any references or footnotes?
Do you need me to indicate style elements for your typesetter?
If so, how would you like me to do this? If you're not sure, I will use Word styles.
How would you like me to give you feedback and ask questions?
For example, should I use comment boxes, or a separate document?
What style guide would you prefer, and do you need me to apply it rigidly?
If you don't have a preference, I will prioritise consistency within your work, and use the New Oxford Style Manual to help me make style decisions.
This will help me judge whether the job is right for me. It will also help me to plan my work if you hire me. If you're not sure what you need, that's okay! Just let me know, and we can discuss what would be best for you.
My rate and time estimate will vary depending on word count and the details of the work required. However, I know money can be tight for indie creators and marginalised people, so I'm willing to consider payment plans.
I have experience working in Microsoft Word, Libre Office, and Google Docs. I will use Word/Libre's Track Changes, or Google Docs' Suggesting mode, to suggest edits so you can easily approve or reject them as needed.
Get in touch at contact@rowanpierce.uk
"The edits [Rowan] made were fantastic for clarity, grammar and structure of the piece... would definitely use their services again." – Hazel Dixon, Creative Lead at Bobbit Worm Games and co-writer of Accessibility in Online Larp
"Rowan... provided helpful corrections and comments on a quick turnaround. I would recommend them for any proofreading work." – Miller J. Power, Archaeology Master’s Graduate at Durham University
“I asked Rowan to edit... fiction that was being used to introduce players to [a tabletop roleplaying event's] setting. ...Rowan picked up on errors that the game team would have overlooked and helped us to rework sections of the material to better deliver the narrative we were looking for; as a result the players received a better insight into the setting." – John Exton, Game Master for The 24 Hour Game
"Rowan edited a guide and a funding application... They were professional and proactive and their editing work was excellent. I would recommend them to other clients." – Alex Hilton, Organiser for Nonbinary Inclusion Project