PhD Editing Services

How much does this usually cost?

Costs will vary. You can find some very affordable options on Fivrr. Your university probably has some skilled editors in the form of English or Creative writing grad students. Then, there are professional editors who will charge by the word or per page. I’ve seen quotes run from $20 an hour, to $30 per page (250 words per page). The services, and skill level, offered by each will also vary. Some may provide proofreading only, while others will give structural feedback. So be sure to know what you want and need, then spend wisely.

Okay…so how much do you charge?

I charge $0.04/word + GST (for clients in British Columbia).

What do your services include?

I read line-by-line to correct any errors to spelling, grammar, and punctuation. I also ensure the voice is consistent throughout. I will point out any errors in logic, flow, or structure. I also provide comments to explain my edits. This is important because your dissertation has to be YOUR work. You must be able to stand behind it and explain your choices. The corrections I make must be understood and approved by you.

What don’t your services include?

I won’t format your work, unless we’ve discussed otherwise. I also won’t make any big structural changes, as this can jeopardize your arguments. I will make a comment if I think that the logic isn’t working. I also don’t edit References/Works Cited sections, tables of contents, tables, or appendices. These will be taken out of your word count to save you some bucks!

So my dissertation will be perfect, right?

I will endeavour to make your dissertation as error-free as possible, but I am human. It’s best practice to have your eyes/more eyes on the final paper, especially after your edits are approved via Track Changes, to ensure no typos were introduced or missed.

What’s the timeline?

Timelines vary. My calendar tends to fill up quickly with regular client work and contract work. It’s best to get in touch a few months before you need to have your final work finished.

1. Virtual call: I like to schedule an hour-long call to discuss your needs and your dissertation hopes and dreams. This is free of charge and to see if we’re a good fit together.

2. Contract: I’ll provide a contract and a timeline by the next business day. Once this is approved, we’re off to the races.

3. Edit: From the agreed upon start date, I take one month to edit a dissertation < 60,000 words (about 15,000 words per week). Any papers that are longer or shorter, we can discuss alternate timelines.

4. Follow Up: I will return your dissertation, as per the contact deadline. One week after this, I will schedule a one-hour follow up call to answer any questions you may have. During the week with my edits, I suggest you read through my comments, put them away for a day or two, then go to town on those Track Changes.

Do you do rush projects?

Not usually. My calendar is usually pretty full! It’s always worth asking, as things might be slow, or I might be willing to pull a few all-nighters. There will be an additional charge for rush projects.

What program do you use?

I am able to use Microsoft Word or Google Docs, with Track Changes turned on. This means that you will have to go through and accept or reject each change (as per the note above).

Is formatting included?

We can talk. Formatting can get wonky as you change between software and go to print. It’s best if you have a handle on formatting with your final document. If this is an area where you need support, we can explore options, but I’d recommend learning how to format your document so you’re in control before you go to print.

What subjects do you edit?

I’m studying for the MCAT, so I like to think I can edit anything, but I know better. I can edit the humanities, social sciences, fine arts, APA and MLA sorts of things.

How does payment work?

1. I will send you a contract that you will sign and return.

2. Once we’re both in agreement and the contract is signed both ways, a deposit of 50% is due. I accept payment via e-transfer or Paypal.

3. Your dissertation will be due to me by the agreed upon start date, as per the contract. If it is late, a 10% surcharge will apply each week, as I will be holding this space for you and saying no to other work.

4. I will return your dissertation to you by the agreed upon date and send a final invoice.

5. I will schedule a follow up call after the deadline date to answer any questions.