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Freelance Editing
& Writing Services

Manuscript Services for Individual Authors

I primarily work with authors who are planning to self-publish and who have completed books that require editing prior to final publication. I provide the following services:

  • Detailed, line by line editing of novels, articles, stories, and nonfiction books 

  • Careful review of texts for spelling, grammar, punctuation, word choice, word flow, and references (if any)

  • Basic formatting of manuscripts for submission or for publication (if required)

The level of services I provide go well beyond basic proofreading, but they do not include detailed critique. I do not rewrite manuscripts or offer marketing assessments or creative input. If you desire creative input, writing advice, or reorganization of your entire manuscript, please seek an editor that provides comprehensive editing services.

Editing, Writing, and Design Services for Businesses

I provide the following services to businesses:

  • Writing original articles for websites or newsletters on assigned topics

  • Editing website copy, newsletter copy, business letters, business proposals, brochures, and other business documents

  • Newsletter design and editing (files supplied as PDF)

  • Basic brochure design and editing (files supplied as PDF)

How Much Do Your Services Cost?
I charge a flat rate of $35 per hour for all services. (For line editing services for books, this typically ranges from $2.00 to $4.00 per double-spaced page, depending on how much editing your document requires. Based on your sample, I can provide you with a more specific quote.)

Can I Get A Free Sample of Your Editing?
Yes. Authors may provide me with two double-spaced pages, which I will edit for free. Just send your sample pages as a Word attachment to ssburris@cox.net. This is the best way to evaluate the type and quality of editing services I provide.  I highly recommend that you ask for a free sample edit anytime you consider a freelance editor. 

Businesses may request sample newsletters and article clips by e-mail as well.

What Are Your Qualifications?

My varied educational and professional background has well equipped me to provide freelance editing and writing services:

  • M.A. in English from the University of Texas at Brownsville (G.P.A.: 4.0/4.0). My score on the verbal portion of the G.R.E. was in the 99th percentile.

  • B.A. in English and Economics from the University of Virginia (G.P.A.: 3.84/4.0)

  • Editor of Ancient Paths Literary Magazine since 1998

  • Editor and writer for the following publications: MOPS Minutes, newsletter of Truro MOPS (2008 - present); The MomsClub Connection, newsletter of the MomsClub of Fairfax-West (2007 - present);  Inspirations, newsletter of Woodmen of the World Virginia North (2002-2004); The Pace Report, newsletter of C.L. Pace Associates (2000 - 2003); Taxing Times, newsletter of Hales, Bradford, & Allen, L.L.P. (1997-1998); and The Looking Glass, newsletter of the U.V.A. B.S.U. (1994-1997). 

  • I am the author of two published novels, and my poetry and short stories have appeared in numerous periodicals, including AIM: America's Intercultural Magazine, The First Line, Time of Singing, Raconteur, and The Penwood Review.  I have written articles for FineTuning.com and Associated Content in addition to other websites. For a complete list of my personal publication credits, click here.

How Do I Pay You?
I accept payment via money order, personal check, or PayPal (where you may use a credit card).  New clients are requested to make a fifty percent deposit in advance.  Checks and money orders may be mailed to PO Box 7505, Fairfax Station, VA 22039.  PayPal payments may be sent to ssburris@cox.net.

Skylar Hamilton Burris

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