Practical details

  • My hourly rate for editing services is CHF 100 (CHF 75 for self-paying students). The amount of time I need for editing depends not only on the length of the text but also on quality of writing in the original text and the level of editing requested (see below). I can provide a cost estimate after an initial review of the text if necessary.
  • I usually require one week to edit a manuscript for a journal article of standard length, but I try to accommodate more urgent deadlines. Please include your preferred deadline in your request. For larger assignments (e.g. books, reports, websites) I work with the author to arrange deadlines.
  • I add my suggestions electronically, using the ‘Track Changes’ function in Microsoft Word, the OverLeaf interface (for LaTeX documents), or the editing tools available in Adobe Acrobat (for PDFs).
  • I offer translation services (German to English) in addition to editing assistance. Please contact me to discuss your specific translation needs.

Standard language editing

CHF 100 per hour = approx. CHF 60 per 1000 words
I complete meticulous language editing so that readers can easily focus on the science you present.
  • I correct spelling, punctuation, grammar, and syntax.
  • I optimize word choice and sentence structure for readability and conciseness.
  • I offer suggestions to improve the logical flow of the sentences and paragraphs.
  • I provide detailed comments directly in the manuscript explaining why I made certain changes. I am happy to reread sections after further revision and to address questions and more complex points via email or phone.
  • I correct for consistent use of American or British English language conventions.
  • I ensure that the manuscript follows the style and formatting requirements of the provided target journal or the standards set by a specified style guide (e.g. Chicago Manual of Style, New Oxford Style Manual).
  • I point out errors and inconsistencies in the reference list and in-line citations (I edit these sections in detail only when specifically requested).

Substantive editing

CHF 100 per hour = approx. CHF 100 per 1000 words
In addition to completing standard language editing, I carefully consider the scientific content of the manuscript. This part takes more time but often makes more of a difference to the scientific impact and publication success of the paper. I believe this input is what sets my work apart from many other language editing services.
  • I consider how effectively the main messages are conveyed and offer suggestions to enhance the overall paper structure and argumentation.
  • I point out aspects of the methods that may need more explanation for the work to be fully understood or repeated.
  • I check all figures and tables carefully, pointing out formatting issues or aspects that seem unclear, inconsistent, or repetitive given the results reported in the manuscript text.
  • I check for consistent terminology throughout the main text, figures, tables, and any Supplementary Material.
  • For papers that have been through the review process with a journal, I offer to read (and edit if requested) the reviewer response letter, checking any linguistic points and offering suggestions to present the manuscript revisions in the best possible light.