White text saying Lucy Morel-Allen, Proofreader, Copy Editor surrounded by a white circle
LUCY MOREL-Allen

Proofreader and Copy Editor

Why hire me?

First impressions count.

When you have spent hours, weeks or months writing your text, it can be difficult to spot mistakes. The closer you are to the work, the harder this becomes.  A proofreader or copy editor provides a second pair of eyes to check that you are presenting your work at its very best. 

Proofreading

Proofreading is the final step before your work is released to the world. It is more than a simple read-through – proofreading is a detailed study of the text, requiring focus and experience.

When I proofread your work, I will check for:

  • Spelling and serious punctuation errors
  • Inconsistencies of spelling or hyphenation
  • Incorrect headings, headers/footers, references or page numbers
  • Missing or repeated text
  • Any errors in captions

Proofreading is not just relevant for books: any text that is being shared with the public would benefit from an additional check, for example marketing materials or website copy. Proofreading will ensure your brand is always presented at its best.

Copy Editing

Copy editing is more substantial than proofreading.

When I copy edit your work, I will:

  • Review your text for clarity and coherence and make suggestions to improve flow
  • Check for any spelling and grammatical errors or inconsistencies
  • Ensure that any house styles have been adhered to (if applicable)
  • Check for consistency of language and tone
  • Check references are accurate
  • Clean up your document and remove any unwanted formatting or spaces

About Me

I am an Oxfordshire-based proofreader and copy editor with more than 12 years’ experience working in publishing.  I am a member of the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP) and abide by its Code of Practice

Training and Qualifications

  • CIEP Copyediting: Headway (Merit)
  • CIEP Copyediting: Introduction
  • CIEP Proofreading: Headway (Merit)
  • CIEP Proofreading: Introduction
  • CIM Diploma in Professional Marketing 
  • Bachelor of Music degree

Specialist areas

I am happy to work across all subject areas, however my specialisms are:

  • Business & Management
  • Marketing 
  • Music 
  • Mental health
  • Psychology

Materials

My services include proofreading and editing the following:

  • Marketing materials
  • Books
  • Magazine or journal articles
  • Website copy
  • Business documents

I can work with print or digital materials. 

Rates

Each job is unique and is dependent on variables such as:

  • Subject matter
  • Format (website, brochure, academic article etc.)
  • Quality of writing 
  • Whether the text has already been edited

My quotes are based on the suggested minimum hourly rate set out by the CIEP.

Contact Me

If you have a question or you would like a no-obligation quote, please contact me using the form below: