Rates & Process

Basic rate: $40/hour

If you would like to work out a pay rate by page or word, it is possible, but I do not have any set rates of this sort because the amount of time and editing that each document requires varies.

As a freelance editor, I provide an array of editing services, from proofreading and polishing to more “hands on” editing in which I make changes within the text, SHOWING rather than simply TELLING you how you might improve your essay. In every case, I strive to maintain your personal voice and style while clarifying and streamlining your writing.

When working with a word limit, I can trim your essay down to the proper length. I can also provide suggestions for additional material when necessary.

Process:

  1. Contact me to be sure that I am available. If you have a deadline that you’re working with, let me know. Also provide an estimate of the length(s) of the document(s) you need edited.
  2. Once I have confirmed that I am available, send your essay(s) as a Word attachment. Please include the essay instructions and page/word/character limit(s).
  3. Optional: Wait for time estimate and/or set a cap (a number of hours that you don’t want me to go past without approval).* If you want to skip this step, let me know when you submit your essay(s), and I'll get to work as soon as I receive your deposit.
  4. Send a 1-hour OR 50% deposit (US$40/hr + 5% = $42/hr)** via PayPal to noelnorcross@hotmail.com. This will go towards the total fee. If it’s going to be coming from a different email account than the one you used to send your essay, let me know.
  5. Receive edit and comments 24-48 hrs later.*** I will then tell you the balance due. I use the Track Changes feature in MS Word. If you do not have this program, please let me know. Otherwise, you may have difficulty reading my comments. Please note that academic papers and anything longer than 4 pages often have a longer turnaround time (approximately 1 week).
  6. Optional: Ask basic questions via email for up to a week after. Let me know if you're planning to submit revisions.
  7. Optional: Send revisions. The time I spend reviewing and commenting on these will be added to the total.
  8. Send the balance due ($40/hr + 5% - deposit) to noelnorcross@hotmail.com via PayPal within 48 hours.

***

* A personal statement of 800-1000 words generally takes 2 hours, but please allow for an hour difference in either direction. If you're trying to estimate the total price to send your deposit, allow 1 hour per 500 words. Editing rates for longer pieces like academic articles or book chapters may be significantly less and calculated by word or page. Please email me with a sample and description of the project for an estimate.

** Whichever is greater. If your essay is 500 words or less, please send a deposit of 1 hour ($42). If the essay only takes 1 hour, your remaining balance will be $0. If the essay is 500 words or more, please send a 50% deposit. The 5% is to cover transaction fees.

*** If you need your essay expedited (returned in less than 48 hours), there is a surcharge that will vary from 1 hour of pay to 50%, depending on the order size. Please inquire for more information if you need this service as sometimes my schedule will not permit such orders.