Copyediting

The Precision Pass

Copyediting is the stage where every detail of your manuscript is examined for accuracy and consistency. It comes after structural/developmental or line-level edits, and before proofreading. This is the point where your work is prepared to meet the eyes of readers, agents, or publishers without distraction.

What Copyediting covers

Copyediting is all about the clarity, accuracy, and polish of your story while keeping your voice, intent and style.

A WordServings copyedit

  • checks and corrects the mechanics of grammar: spelling, punctuation, and syntax
  • ensures consistency of names, timelines, formatting, and stylistic choices (tense, POV, etc.)
  • applies either standard editorial guidelines or your preferred style sheet
  • prepares your manuscript for self-publishing or submission to agents and publishers.

Benefits by genre

  • Fiction. Your story engages readers unobstructed by distracting technical errors.
  • Non-fiction. Your authority stands out with professional polish.
  • Memoir. Your truth shines through, free of technical distractions.

What you’ll receive

  • Your edited manuscript with Track Changes showing every editorial alteration
  • A ‘clean’ copy of your manuscript with all changes accepted
  • In-manuscript questions where your input is needed
  • In-manuscript comments (brief) on anything I particularly loved in your story
  • A custom style sheet documenting editorial and style decisions made
  • A short editorial report summarizing any repeated technical issues in your writing and suggestions for how to fix them going forward
  • Email support during the editing process
  • A follow-up call after you’ve received your edits for any questions or clarifications

Investment

Every story is unique, so every quote is tailored to reflect the scope and depth of the individual manuscript. As a guide, a Line Edit of 50,000 words generally falls within the USD $1500–$2000 range. This reflects the detailed attention and care your story receives at WordServings.

The investment for a non-fiction manuscript is often slightly higher than for fiction or memoir because of additional elements like tables, diagrams, complex ideas, references, footnotes, etc.

A clear agreement covers scope of the project and fee before any work begins. There are never any hidden costs.

Ready to explore copyediting for your book?

LET’S GET STARTED