*
Proofreading and Editing Services
What is proofreading?
Proofreading is a final check of a document before it is published. It involves looking for any remaining typos, inconsistencies, incorrect labelling and grammatical or lexical errors.
​
I do this by making notes on PDFs using the comment tools, or by using Tracked Changes in Word. I use the Comment function there too to ask questions and make suggestions.
​
Is proofreading different to editing?
Yes, and no. Editing takes place before proofreading and so there are likely more things to fix. There are actually different types of editing that make different levels of changes to the work. See here for the CIEP's description of them.​​
On the other hand, copyediting checks for errors, ensures the work follows any given style guide and ensures the language is clear, correct and consistent. When proofreading, I only make changes that really need to be made. When editing, I will also consider changes that can improve the text.
So, what is proof-editing?
There's also something called proof-editing. For clients who are not connected to publishing houses, it is fairly common these days to require some small improvements to the text as well as the standard proofreading tasks of checking for errors. Because this then falls somewhere between editing and proofreading, it has become known as proof-editing.
+
What's included in your proofreading service?
When you hire me to proofread, I carry out a thorough check of the following:
-
typos, spelling and grammar
-
the style guide has been followed, if there is one
-
consistency of the fonts, heading styles and table layouts
-
factual discrepancies.
​
I also offer proof-editing. On top of the standard proofreading tasks, this service includes minor improvements to the word choice and flow of the text.
​For both proofreading and proof-editing projects, I will also include a style sheet, which details the style decisions that have been made, such as which type of English is being used (British, American, etc), which numbers are being spelled out or written as numerals, which words are capitalised and which spelling preferences you have – anything that is different or more detailed than any style guide used or is inconsistent in the text.
​
​
What format do you accept work in?
I am able to proofread Word or PDF documents. In Word, I will use Tracked Changes and on PDF I use Comment tools. This means that you keep control over any changes I suggest. With Tracked Changes, you can see the suggested changes and choose to accept or reject them. When accepted they are incorporated into the document. On a PDF, you need to see my comments and make the changes to the document yourself.
Can I send you a sample to see your work?
Yes. If you would like to try out my service, I provide a short free sample proofread with no obligation. Just get in touch using my contact form below, and I will tell you what to send.
<
Pricing
How much do your services cost?
While each project is different and has different requirements, I can give you a rough idea of how much my services cost. I use the CIEP's suggested minimum rates as a guide. Depending on the project I might charge by the hour or word.
!
Testimonials
Philippa is a joy to work with. She is dedicated to providing a thorough and comprehensive proofreading service, and her communication is responsive and professional.
Elena Orde, The Vegan Society
01
I highly recommend Philippa Marthaller for the exceptional work as a proofreader of educational papers. Philippa demonstrated an outstanding ability to enhance clarity, coherence and academic rigour in every document she worked on. Her keen eye for detail, deep understanding of educational content and commitment to maintaining high standards greatly contributed to the quality of our publication in ‘Educational Challenges’.
Philippa consistently met tight deadlines while ensuring accuracy and thoroughness in each review. She is not only skilled in identifying areas for improvement but also provides insightful feedback that helps authors strengthen their work.
I am confident that Philippa would be an invaluable asset to any team in the educational field.
Prof. Ilona Kostikova,
Editor-in-Chief of Educational Challenges
02
I have used Philippa’s proofreading services multiple times over the last year and have always been extremely satisfied with the quality of the work. The proofread texts are accurate, nuanced, and perfectly tailored to the context. As a teacher of English as a foreign language, Philippa brings an exceptional understanding of cultural subtleties, which greatly enhances the precision and effectiveness of the work. I highly recommend Philippa to anyone in need of professional and meticulous language services.
Justyna Winiarczyk,
Languages for You and English Speaking Mum
03
Proofreading
Language Consultation
Proof-editing
​
&
About Me
I’m Philippa Marthaller, known by many as Pip.
What do you do?
​
I love the English language, and I love to help. I use what I have learned about language to iron out any lasting errors by proofreading all types of texts.
​
What qualifications do you have?
​
CIEP Proofreading 2: Headway
CIEP Proofreading 1: Introduction
​
MA Applied Linguistics (University of Birmingham, UK)
​
DELTA (Diploma in Teaching English to Adults)
CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Adults)
CYLT (Certificate in Young Learners Teaching)
​
How did you get into proofreading and editing?​
​
Back in 2004, my love of language manifested itself when I decided to become an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teacher. I got my first teaching job in Hiroshima, Japan and set about learning to teach English and learning Japanese at the same time. Then I moved to Poland and learnt a little of that, then later to Czechia. While teaching English and academic skills, I completed an MA in Applied Linguistics.
​​
I settled back in my native Surrey, England a few years ago now. I wanted to continue my passion for language, and in 2022, I discovered the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP), which gave me a gateway into being a professional proofreader. I completed their proofreading courses and benefited from their shared wisdom. Since then, I have been happily proofreading, editing and proof-editing. Why not get in touch about your project?
​
​​
My Connections
@
Contact Me
If you would like a quote or to ask me a question get in touch below.