I specialise in dissertations, theses, academic papers and books, but I’m very happy to look at any text that needs to be improved. I only charge by the hour (not per word or per page) and can provide an estimate of the total cost before I agree to take on a job if you are able to provide a sample (2,000-4,000 words is generally about right). The sample will give each of us an idea of what to expect from the other, in terms of cost, timescale and whatever level of intervention we agree is appropriate. Please note that, like the vast majority of freelancers, I do not work for free. The sample is not a loss leader and I charge for the time it takes to work on your sample, and to then agree with you the scope and nature of the project.

A PhD thesis or book will usually be £300-£500 depending on the length and complexity, while a Masters dissertation is usually around £100-200, but these are broad ballpark figures, as every project is different. Note that proofreading and copy-editing are different skills, requiring different grades of intervention.

What can I do for you?

• I can correct errors in spelling and grammar. I generally suggest tracked changes in Word, but can also work with .pdf documents. Every error in spelling or grammar will be corrected. If it isn’t clear to me how to correct your work (for example, if I am not sure what you are trying to say, or if I want to offer more than one alternative), I will mark these instances in a comment so that you can make the best use of time in resolving any remaining issues.
•  can help you avoid other faults and flaws in your writing. Obviously, there is a lot more to good writing than correct spelling and grammar. Often there are a whole host of other issues, such as poor formatting, inadequate construction, inelegant or unidiomatic English, unclear phrasing, monotonous vocabulary, errors in diagrams and poor referencing. I can note all of these and suggest clear, simple ways to improve your work.
• I can work with you to get a finished product that shows the best of your ability. Once I have read your work and you have read my report, I will continue to look at further drafts and offer as much help with the editing process as you need, until we are both content that your text is as good as it can be.

What can’t I do for you?

• I can’t catch factual errors. Although I have been known to spot factual errors, if you are submitting a complex paper on the economics of the Norwegian fisheries policy and you spell the name of the relevant minister incorrectly, I’m afraid I probably won’t notice. That is a mistake in the content, rather than the presentation, formatting, spelling or grammar. Ultimately, you still have to take responsibility for your work, particularly if you are submitting it as part of an educational qualification (indeed, your university may well require you to include a declaration stating something along these lines). In some situations where knowledge of the specific content is necessary, I might pass you on to another freelancer from my collective who has relevant expertise and therefore may a better fit for your project.
• I can’t turn around your work in ten minutes. Of course I will turn it around as quickly as I can, but please understand that you are unlikely to be my only customer. It’s very helpful to know about deadlines so that I can plan my work, ensuring as far as possible that your project can fit in with what has already been booked. Fundamentally, the longer you can give me, the better I can do. If you’d like to use my services and you’re not sure whether I can meet your deadline, please just ask!
• I can’t write your work for you! I’m here to help you write, not to write or re-write for you. It sounds obvious, and yet …

Prices: £31.10 per hour (I do not charge per thousand words or per page). Regular customers will be offered a lower hourly rate. 

‘Jess’s proofreading has saved me time, stress and embarrassment on more occasions than I care to remember. Along with her editing comes a great deal of wit and wisdom – she’s exactly the person you want in your corner when facing an important deadline. I can’t thank her enough, or recommend her services more highly.’ Dr Emily Baughan (lecturer in History, University of Sheffield)

‘The proofreading service Jess provides is incredible. Not only is she thorough, she kept me updated throughout the process (which was remarkably quick), and sent on a detailed report full of helpful tips in addition to the highlighted in-text adjustments. Saved me so much time, and I couldn’t have hoped for a more reasonable price.’ Owen Abbott (studied sociology, philosophy and anthropology at the University of Exeter)

‘Your email saying you could proof my thesis was like angels’ trumpets after the panic I have been through. I could not thank you more.’ Dr. Ke Shi, PhD (studied performativity at the University of Bristol).

‘I can’t thank you enough for the difference you made to my work. I feel really proud of it now reading though. I have recommended you countless times recently!’ Dr. Faye Taylor, PhD (studied tourism at the University of Bedfordshire).

‘Oh Jess!! I don’t know how to thank you enough!!! I think you are my degree saver! Thank you Thank you Thank you!’ Ms. Polina Chebanenko (studied sociology at the University of Bristol)

‘Jess, your service is incredible!’ Nattayanee Chatiketu (studied tourism at the University of Bedfordshire)