Question 1

What is the difference between proofreading, copyediting, and substantive editing?

Accepted Answer

At ESOL edit, these services are offered as increasing levels of editorial intervention. Proofreading is the lightest level: a final check for spelling, grammar, punctuation, formatting, typos, and small inconsistencies. Copyediting includes proofreading-level corrections, but goes further. It works at sentence level to improve clarity, tone, flow, word choice, sentence structure, grammar, and consistency, while preserving your voice and meaning. Substantive editing includes full copyediting, as well as deeper work on the text as a whole. It looks at structure, organisation, coherence, argument, emphasis, repetition, gaps, and the development of ideas. After substantive editing, a final proofread may still be useful if you make significant revisions.

Question 2

How do I know which service my writing needs?

Accepted Answer

That depends on the condition of the text and what you need it to do. If the writing is already strong and you simply want a final check, proofreading may be enough. If the language needs smoothing and the structure needs tightening, copyediting is usually the better fit. If the argument, organisation, or overall shape of the piece still needs work, substantive editing is likely to be more useful.

If you are unsure, I can advise after seeing a sample.

Question 3

Can I combine services?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some projects need more than one level of support. A piece may begin with substantive editing or copyediting and then go through a final proofread once revisions are complete. The best approach depends on the text, the deadline, and the stage the writing is at.

Question 4

Do you follow style guides such as APA, Chicago, or house style?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If your work needs to follow a particular style guide or publisher’s house style, I edit with that in mind. It helps to mention this at the start and, where possible, send any relevant style sheet or submission guidelines with the manuscript.

Question 5

Can you help if English is not my first language?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Much of my work is with clients writing in English when English is not their first language. This is one of the areas I specialise in, particularly in academic contexts where tone, nuance, and natural expression matter as much as technical correctness.

Specialist support for academic, professional, and creative projects that need clear, precise, polished English.

Copyediting

Substantive Editing

Indexing

Proofreading

Copywriting

Translation

Security, discretion, and integrity

NDA standard

Academic ethics

Secure transfer

Quality guarantee

Choosing the right level of editorial support