Services & cost

Most clients want to know how much it will cost to check their document and how quickly it will be done. This page explains the proofreading services offered for students and academics, and how costs are calculated. If you have any other questions, please get in touch, or have a look at some of the frequently asked questions here.

What does the proofreading service cover?

Academic proofreading includes a thorough review of the text, layout and references, with careful attention to detail, including the following:

  • Spelling and punctuation (both British English and US, if required)
  • Grammar and syntax
  • Layout and consistency, for example, capitalisation
  • Numbering of pages, tables and figures
  • References layout and cross-check to bibliography (if required)
  • Suggestions for the improvement of text, such as repetitive word use or informal language

How much will my proofreading cost?

When you’re working to a budget you need to know how much something will cost before placing an order. You don’t want to be surprised by any extras when the final invoice arrives. For this reason, I prefer to quote on the basis of a document’s word count rather than an hourly rate. That way, we can both be clear about the final cost from the outset.


The decision to have a document proofread is often made at the last minute. When you’re busy writing the last thing on your mind is that final check to make sure your writing creates the best impression. I understand this and I’ll return your proofreading to you as soon as my schedule permits, however I won’t take any shortcuts that will compromise on quality. If you’re working to a very tight deadline contact me to book your proofreading slot, then I will ensure that time is reserved just for your project.


My standard proofreading and copy-editing service covers all the usual checks for errors and consistency. You can read the full list here. Costs start at £10 per 1000 words; for projects of less than 1000 words there is a minimum fee of £10. Subject to availability, the basic turnaround time is 24 hours for 2000 words.


Urgent work, for example 5000 words in under 24 hours, may be charged at a higher rate. Please contact me to discuss your deadline, as I can often accommodate work at short notice or over the weekend.


I may be able to offer a discount for proofreading booked more than four weeks in advance, regular commissions, non-urgent work with a turnaround time of 21 days or more, or lengthy documents (over 50,000 words).


I reserve the right to charge a higher rate once I have seen the extent of work required, however, if my schedule allows I am happy to prepare a sample edit of 500 words taken from your text, so that you can see the service you will receive.

Ready to get started? Contact me