Why I charge for a sample edit

I started charging for sample edits a few years ago. Before that, I used to do them for free (because I thought they’d win me the job). But they took up a lot of time – and I mean a lot. That’s because a sample edit can’t be whipped up in minutes. It’s a time-consuming process, and not all samples lead to work. It wasn’t financially viable to continue doing them, so I stopped.

The truth is, when I first started freelancing, most of my work came from book publishers, so sample edits weren’t required. The publishers already knew my specialisms, either because I’d worked with them before or someone had referred me, and their detailed briefs would guide my edit. But over the years, I’ve started working with different clients, including:

• self-publishing authors

• online businesses

• marketers

• schools.

These clients often require more support and editorial intervention, so a sample edit is critical to determine how heavy the edit will be, how long it will take and what it will cost. But most importantly, it’s the best way to find out if we’re a good fit.

So how does a sample edit work?

If you’re a marketer or business, I’ll ask for a random sample of the content that needs to be edited. (Links to online content can also be useful.) If you’re a non-fiction author, I'll ask for a sample from the middle of the book. That’s because introductions and first chapters aren’t always indicative of how much work is required. (From experience, those chapters tend to be more polished than the rest.)

Once I receive the sample (and an editorial brief), I'll tell you if the book/content is within my wheelhouse. If it is, I'll send an invoice for the fee and get started. Here's what the sample edit will include:

• correcting grammar, punctuation and spelling errors

• removing repetition, redundancies and wordiness

• recasting sentences to improve flow and clarity

• ensuring US, UK or Australian usage and spelling

• correcting formatting issues (e.g. heading hierarchies, lists)

• explaining corrections and requesting clarifications

• highlighting clichés, non-inclusive language or bias

• checking facts, names, places and links

• letting the author know what’s working well

• applying a style or brand guide (if available)

• providing a quote and timeline for the whole job.

After submission, the author evaluates the edit – as well as my fee and timeline – and decides if they want to move forward or not.

What's the cost of a sample edit?

While newer editors may offer free samples to secure more clients and testimonials, more experienced editors tend to charge a small fee. That said, some experienced editors offer free examples because their higher rates absorb the cost. There’s no right or wrong. It all depends on their business model and personal preference.

These days, my sample edits cost A$50 for 1,000 words – and the fee gets deducted from the total if we end up working together. And no, you don’t have to limit yourself to 1,000 words. I can edit more if it’s helpful.

Note: Some authors get a number of editors to provide free samples of different chapters, ostensibly getting their book edited for free. While this may seem like a smart (wily?) way to save money, using a range of different editors can result in stylistic inconsistencies! Plus, it isn’t fair to the editors who spent hours on those samples and weren't compensated for their time and expertise.

How long does it take to provide a sample edit?

It all depends on my schedule, the type of project and the level of intervention required. Typically, I can turn around 1,000 words in 24–48 hours. If you require a longer sample edit, get in touch for a rough estimate.

Do you need a sample edit before hiring an editor?

No, you don't need a sample edit before hiring an editor – but it's recommended. It gives both parties a sense of the other's skill, approach and personality. There's nothing worse than handing over your manuscript – and hard-earned money – and getting an edit that doesn't align with your needs or goals.

However, if you've worked with an editor before, a sample edit may not be necessary. You already know how they operate and there won't be any surprises. You could also forgo a sample if the editor provides edits chapter by chapter (like I often do). Author feedback on the first chapter will guide the rest of the edit, ensuring there are no surprises or misunderstandings along the way.

Summing up: Why I charge for a sample edit

Sample edits are a great way to gauge if an edit will match your writing goals, working style and budget – and if your personalities will mesh (which is an underrated but crucial part of the author–editor relationship).

Personally, I charge a small fee. That’s because I want you to know that I’m a professional editor and that you’ll get value for the service.

But if you’d prefer a free sample, that’s okay too. Whatever works for your budget. And don’t worry, we won’t get offended if you’re shopping around. In fact, we encourage it. We want to find the right fit as much as you do!

Looking for a non-fiction book editor to sharpen your writing and remove niggly errors? Get in touch via my contact page or request a sample edit.