Editors and proofreaders

When it comes to publishing content of any kind (print or online), the editor’s job is to improve a piece of writing by tweaking the structure, tone, style and flow. An editor can advise you on the development of your theme, characterisation and the overall feel of the text / article / book. A good editor will also collate a style sheet and corrects grammar, spelling, formatting and styling.

Proofreaders are hired to go through a piece of writing (usually at the final stages) with a fine tooth-comb, checking for typos and correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, word choices, fact checking and formatting.

Some editors work on magazines, newspapers and digital sites; others specialise in editing book manuscripts, with many types of specialist editors in between. A sub-editor or copy-editor typically subs digital stories or works on magazine or newspaper layouts (checking facts, copy-fitting stories and adding heads, sells, captions etc). Others have transferred their skills over to digital publishing platforms. An editorial assistant typically works in print and is at a more junior level.

The fees and rates for proofreaders do tend to vary. In our Pay Rates Report (free to download) we recommend paying anywhere from $50 to $75 an hour, but again, experience and proficiency is the key to determining this rate.

Absolutely! You’ve come to the right place. If you’ve completed your first draft and need support in refining the book and making sure you’ve nailed your ideas and theme, consider hiring an editor first to make sure you’re on the right path. You may, however, be confident with your final draft and in this instance, advertising a proofreading gig with us is your next step.

Project fees and hourly rates are common with editorial freelancers. Expect to pay an editor $80-120 per hour depending on their experience. A sub-editor will charge on average $50-60 per hour.