Developmental Editing. Developmental editing is in-depth, comprehensive editing focused on structure, organization, clarity, and content. In the case of fiction and creative nonfiction—the only genres I work with—this also includes plot development, character development, and other elements of craft. Developmental editing includes a comprehensive manuscript critique, detailed explanation of problems, and tangible solutions. A developmental edit also involves posing a great deal of questions to the author, and it is generally an ongoing process that requires numerous exchanges between author and editor. In a developmental edit, my goal is to help the writer to realize his/her vision. ($68/hour)

Copyediting. Copyediting involves correcting grammar, spelling, punctuation, and capitalization errors, along with addressing problematic syntax. Copyediting also addresses formatting issues—for instance, ensuring uniformity of headers, footnotes, and reference lists. Changes will be made based on a style guide of the client’s choice. A copyedit takes place after the manuscript’s content, organization, structure, and plot are set, but before the book is typeset and sent to a printer for proof or galley copies. ($65/hour)

Proofreading. Proofreading is the last step in the editorial process—a final “polish” of a manuscript ready for publication. At the proofreading stage, the editor corrects spelling, mechanical, and grammatical errors only. (Awkward phrasing, unclear sentences, or syntax problems will be untouched.) Additionally, when proofreading galley copies or page proofs, the proofreader checks for typographical errors such as inconsistent margins, spacing problems, and improper hyphenation. A writer needing more extensive editing should seek a copyedit or developmental edit. ($60/hour)

Resume and Cover Letter Services. Without a well-written cover letter and resume, you’ll never land an interview to prove you’re the best candidate for the job. I will rewrite your current resume to reflect current trends and styles, making sure to highlight your achievements and make you stand out from the majority of job-seekers, whose résumés generally focus only on their job duties. I will also optimize the language and formatting for the Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that are commonly used to eliminate more than 70% of resumes before they are seen by human eyes. I provide a three-business-day turnaround on first drafts once all requested materials are received, and I will revise until you’re satisfied. ($68/hour)

College, Graduate School, & Professional School Admission Essays. Whether you’re proofreading your Common App personal essay, drafting a personal statement to submit with your college application, reducing the word count for your grad school statement of purpose, or brainstorming ideas for a program’s supplemental essay questions, I can help you through the process. I was an academic advisor at Lakeland University for six years and also served on the institution’s graduate committee. I’ve helped students craft effective materials that contributed to acceptance for undergraduate programs, law school, dental school, medical school, Ph.D. programs, MBA programs, MFA programs, and more. ($68/hour)