An important distinction between: Proofreading and Copyediting
What is proofreading? Proofreading is the final review of your finished document. You have completed your final draft, you are happy with the structure, tone, and flow of your written piece. You’ve looked it over and are ready to publish or post it but want that one final review by a fresh set of eyes. This is when you hire a proofreader. The proofreader will check spelling, grammar, and punctuation as well as double-check font usage, formatting, spacing as well as proper names and places. The proofreader marks your document if there is an error and returns it to you with the corrections noted. Then, it’s up to you to accept or reject the changes or discuss with your proofreader why changes were made and go from there. Collaboration with your proofreader is recommended.
It’s important to note here that proofreading is not copyediting. Copyediting is the stage before proofreading. While a copyeditor will check for errors noted above, they also will dive deeper into the text and check that what has been written is clear, concise, and consistent. The copyeditor makes sure what has been written makes sense and flows. The copyeditor may be less concerned with spelling, grammar, punctuation, etc., and more concerned that what is written makes sense.
Proofreading rates, based on the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) recommendations, follow:
Per word: $0.012
Per page: $3.00
Per hour: $30.00
These rates are a guideline for customers and final rates will be confirmed based on the type of written content submitted. Technical, medical or other highly-specialized content may require more in-depth research and time for proper proofreading.
Rates may be adjusted to accommodate special situations. All rates will be discussed and finalized with the customer before work begins. Standard turnaround time is 5-7 business days.
Additional Services
Copyediting per hour: $30.00
Writing per hour: $40—$65 (Rates vary based on the type of writing. This may include text for sales brochures, trade and magazine articles, newsletters, press releases, etc.)