FAQs

How do I contact you for a quote or to request a sample edit?

Use the Request a Quote contact form or email me beckystephensediting(at)gmail(dot)com with the following details:

• The title, genre, and total word count
• The premise (in 1-3 sentences)
• Any special concerns you have about your writing (e.g., worries about the overall plot, logical flow, description, or dialogue)
• The level of editing (or proofreading) you’re interested in
• What number draft this manuscript is (e.g., first, 10th)​​

Do you accept every manuscript request?

No. Because I can only take on a few manuscripts at a time, I am selective when choosing manuscripts to edit. I look for a strong narrative voice and a good understanding of writing techniques. Authors must be willing to accept constructive criticism in order to improve their manuscripts. 

How quickly can you begin editing my manuscript?

My schedule varies throughout the year. Please contact me early if you’d like to schedule editing time for your manuscript. I try to keep a flexible schedule, so sometimes I have blocks of editing time that open up on short notice. Feel free to email me to be placed on my waiting list for any spaces that open up in my calendar.

How do I pay for services?

Payments are made via PayPal. A surcharge of 5% is added to the total to compensate for automatic PayPal fees. Two invoices are sent to you--one prior to beginning work, and another when editing is completed and the manuscript returned to you.

When do I pay for services?

A deposit of 25% of the project total is required to hold a slot on my calendar, and 25% is due prior to beginning edits. This is nonrefundable once work commences. The final balance (50%) is due when work is completed.

Do you accept emergency requests?

I will work to accommodate emergency edits, if possible. Please expect to pay a higher rate for emergency edits.

Do I sign a contract?

Yes. The standard editing contract includes fees, payments, schedule, and general policies. The contract can be signed electronically.

How do I send the manuscript to you, and vice versa?

You will email the manuscript as a Word doc attachment. Edits and comments are made using the Track Changes feature in Microsoft Word, and returned to you by the agreed upon deadline.

Do you have a CV or resume?

Yes. You may view my CV here.