Frequently Asked Questions

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I am a good writer. Why should I pay someone to edit my work?

Being too familiar with your own written content can lead you to miss common spelling, grammar, punctuation, and usage errors. A proofreader or copy editor can help you

• Ensure error-free content, and avoid embarrassing errors.
• Enhance your professional image with polished written content.
• Save time, allowing you to focus on other areas of your business. 
• Feel confident in your written communication. 

Check out my blog post Think You Don’t Need a Proofreader?

Do I need copy editing or proofreading services? 

Copy editing and proofreading are two distinct roles in the editing process.

A copy editor focuses on 

• Correctness (e.g., ensuring correct grammar, punctuation, spelling, and usage)
• Consistency (e.g., ensuring consistency in abbreviations, capitalization, and citations; consistently applying the relevant style guide, such as the Chicago Manual of Style or the Associated Press Stylebook; checking for inconsistencies in logic; ensuring the correct English dialect throughout the document; creating a style sheet to document editorial decisions that differ from or may not be addressed in the relevant style guide)
• Completeness (e.g., flagging missing information)
• Accuracy (e.g., checking names, dates)

Proofreading is the final step of the editing process. A proofreader will check the final layout of your document for any remaining typographical issues, such as 

• Inconsistent fonts and improper spacing
• Typos
• Repeated or missing words
• Mechanical errors (including spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors)
• Inconsistent page numbers and headings
• Deviations from the style guide or style sheet

Clients often think they require proofreading services, but if a document has not been through any previous rounds of editing, then copy editing (or even more substantial editing services, such as structural or stylistic editing) may be required. I will discuss your project with you and help you develop a tailored editing solution for your project-specific needs. 

What does a human editor do that AI can’t? 

Without question, AI has evolved and can be a useful tool for basic grammar and formatting checks. However, editing is still a human skill. For example, an editor strives to preserve the author’s tone or voice, while AI still struggles with human concepts, understanding, and emotional intelligence. Other limitations of AI include its inability to solve complex grammar and punctuation issues, its deficiency in cultural awareness and inclusive language, and its lack of creativity. Additionally, AI is not able to fully adhere to all style guides or to company/author-specific style sheets. A human editor plays an essential role in your document production and will focus on correcting and improving your text. 

Check out my blog post Still Think You Don’t Need a Proofreader?

Do I have to submit a specific file format?

Curious Koi Proofreading accepts various file formats, including Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Docs, and PDF. If you have a different file format, please contact me, and I will do my best to accommodate your needs.

Will my confidential information be safe?

Curious Koi Proofreading takes client confidentiality very seriously and will never share your personal information with third parties without your consent.