
Small Hours Editing
Freelance Editing and Other Wordy Services


Services
Here you’ll find all my wordy services, including comprehensive editing options, proofreading, and manuscript assessments. If you’re interested and would like to discuss a project in more detail, just hit the contact button at the bottom of the page, and I’ll be in touch soon.*
Developmental Editing
Looking for a professional, insightful, actionable opinion on your manuscript-in-progress? Developmental editing is the right option for you. I’ll provide constructive criticism on your work that will point out any problems, provide suggestions and solutions, and highlight what’s working well.
Copy Editing
Once your manuscript is fully drafted, you need a great editor to ensure consistency, readability and error-free copy. As your copy editor, I’ll root out any pesky typos, make sure your writing flows effectively, and offer comprehensive, constructive criticism and suggestions to get your work ready for publishing.
Line Editing
If your writing’s in need of work at the closest level, line editing’s what you want. I’ll examine your work line-by-line to ensure every word lands well, every sentence fits together, and everything comes together to form a clear, cohesive and stylish piece of writing.
Proofreading
So your text is almost ready to go – it’s been written, edited and polished to a high shine. Now all that’s left is to find a fresh pair of eyes to ensure that every typo is gone, all the spelling is consistent, and every line is punctuated perfectly. I will ensure that your text is clean, error-free and ready to be published.
Academic Editing
Academic writing is complex, both to write and to format. If you need an expert hand to ensure you meet the high standards expected at degree level and above, I’ll ensure your article, dissertation or thesis hits every target. And if you’re struggling to get your references in order, I’ll make sure they are complete and in compliance with your chosen referencing style.
Manuscript Assessment
When you need a reader’s perspective on your manuscript, I will provide constructive, actionable, encouraging feedback. I’ll look at such elements as structure, pacing and flow (and anything else you need) and help you to bring out your work’s greatest potential. You can receive your feedback as in-text comments, a reader’s report or a combination of both.
* To request a quote, please fill in the contact form, and I’ll get back to you ASAP.

About
Writing is hard. It takes skill, effort and focus to make your words flow. And after all that work, it can be even harder to see where that typo is, or where a point needs a little more explaining. I love working with writers to make sure they get the support and encouragement they need to ensure their writing is the best it can be – and to give them a fresh pair of eyes to seek out those areas that need a bit of polishing. Take a look at the services I offer, and let’s work together to ensure your writing reaches its fullest potential.
Dr Sarah Boyd is a freelance copy editor and proofreader and is the in-house copy editor for independent fiction press A Coup of Owls. She is an intermediate-level member of the Chartered Institute of Editors and Proofreaders (CIEP) and has a PhD in Publishing Studies, along with a first-class degree in English Literature, Master’s degrees in Shakespeare and Publishing Studies, and a diploma in Creative Writing.
Contact
Want to collaborate? Just share a few details, and I’ll be in touch soon.