Question 1

I am interested in your services. How should I get in touch?

Accepted Answer

Great! Please fill out the form under “Contact.” Or email me directly at elizabethsternediting [at] gmail [dot] com. You’ll then receive an email from me inviting you to answer a few questions and to discuss your project (by phone, Zoom, or email—whatever you prefer!).

Question 2

What if I’m not sure what type or level of editing my manuscript needs?

Accepted Answer

No problem! Once you send me your manuscript (or a sample of it), I can let you know what type and level of editing I believe it could most benefit from. As part of my typical editing process, I do a sample edit (I’ll edit a few pages of your manuscript) so you can see my approach. See also  “Editorial Services” for detailed descriptions of the types of editing I commonly offer.

Question 3

How will my manuscript be edited?

Accepted Answer

For most projects, I edit in Microsoft Word, using Track Changes and Comments. You will need to send me your manuscript as a Word doc and have Microsoft Word yourself (in some circumstances, I may be willing to use Google Docs, however). For proofreading projects, I edit in Adobe, in which case please send me your manuscript as a PDF. As part of our initial conversation, I’ll send you more detailed information about what a typical editorial workflow looks like so that you’ll know what to expect from the process.

Question 4

Do you offer other services, such as citations editing, formatting, or indexing? What about substantive or developmental editing?

Accepted Answer

I edit, reformat, check, and fill in citations as a separate service, though it is often rolled into my copyediting service. I can handle any citation style and giant bibliographies! I do basic manuscript formatting, using codes/tags or Word Styles, as required. I do not offer indexing but can recommend folks who do.

I offer substantive, content, and developmental editing depending on the project. Please get in touch to receive a free consultation to discuss your manuscript!

Question 5

Do you work with authors who do not speak English as their first language?

Accepted Answer

Yes! I love working with multilingual and/or ESL authors. I’m a language and grammar nerd, and I’m always happy to explain my editorial changes if you find it helpful. I studied languages and literatures (Russian, German, and Latin) and know from personal experience how hard it is to master all the nitty-gritty details of a given language (and English is delightfully chaotic!). See especially my line/stylistic editing service.

Question 6

Do you work with international clients?

Accepted Answer

Yes! My clients come from all over. I regularly work with international scholars and clients (including publishers, museums, galleries, businesses, and other orgs). I am happy to work directly with your institution or organization to sort contracts and payment.

Question 7

Do you edit student work?

Accepted Answer

I do not edit undergraduate work. I edit graduate work only with the knowledge and express permission of your supervisor, instructor, and/or institution. Universities have different rules regarding the use of professional editors for graduate work, so please check with your university, department, and supervisor. In some cases, I can offer writing and language coaching or a manuscript evaluation in lieu of a full, hands-on edit.

Question 8

What are your turnaround times?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the length, complexity, and final deadline of the project, not to mention how booked up I am. I try to schedule projects in advance, so please get in touch as soon as possible. Once we chat, and I’ve had the chance to review your manuscript, I can provide a project estimate with turnaround times.

Question 9

What are your rates?

Accepted Answer

My rates are determined on a project-by-project basis. If you have limited funds, please let me know. I am happy to adjust my services to fit your budget.

Question 10

Do you require contracts or deposits?

Accepted Answer

Usually yes, particularly for larger projects. The deposit acts as a scheduling fee, holding your spot in my calendar. The contract details the scope of the work, agreed-upon deadlines, rates, method of payment, and other expectations.

Question 11

What methods of payment do you accept?

Accepted Answer

I accept payments via direct bank transfers or check. For clients outside of the United States and Europe, I can accept payments via Wise (formerly TransferWise).

Frequently asked questions