our services
If you’re a Christian writer in need of editing, book formatting, or self-publishing support, we can help.
Let us help you refine, design, and deliver your content.
As you prepare your work for publication, you need a competent editor who can help ensure it is clear, concise, and correct. Errors in your writing create obstacles for your reader. Let us help clear the way so your message connects and resonates. Explore our services FAQ below.
EDITING
Professional copy editing and proofreading
FORMATTING
Book and document layout and formatting
SUPPORT
Self-publishing consultation and implementation
WEBSITE AUDIT
Thorough site review and feedback
Nonfiction Editing
There are many levels of editing, and people mean many different things when they use the term. The editing process typically includes developmental editing, line editing, copyediting, and proofreading. Orchard Scribe specializes in nonfiction copyediting and proofreading, which are typically the final two editing steps before publication. Our mission is to support Christian writers, but we edit content of all sorts.
Copyediting
Copyediting occurs after developmental editing. Although we don’t require clients to complete a developmental edit first, we work best with content that has strong writing and a solid structure. Each copyedit includes the following:
- Correcting spelling, grammar, usage, capitalization, and punctuation
- Checking for formatting inconsistencies
- Ensuring style guide adherence (house style guides, CMOS, AP, APA, MLA, etc.)
- Basic fact-checking
- Ensuring proper citations
- Cross-checking table of contents, figures, tables, and references
- Flagging inaccuracies and inconsistencies
- Suggesting revisions for wordiness, jargon, Christianese, and technical terms
- Verifying scripture references
- Editing in Microsoft Word using Track Changes (We can work in Google Docs with some stipulations, and editing in Adobe Acrobat is available too)
Editing Rate: $0.03-$0.04 per word, depending on the complexity of the project. Discounts are available for clients who are combining services.
Proofreading
Proofreading is the last stage of editing before publication. It is a review of all content after it has been edited and formatted. This service is available for long documents that have been professionally edited and short documents that may not have needed professional editing, but need an extra set of eyes before distribution. Our proofreading service includes the following:
- Correcting typos, spelling, grammar, usage, capitalization, and punctuation
- Checking for formatting inconsistencies (headers, footers, headings, lists, citations)
- Correcting spacing issues, widows, and orphans
- Verifying scripture references
- Editing in Microsoft Word using Track Changes (We can work in Google Docs with some stipulations, and editing in Adobe Acrobat is available too)
Proofreading Rate: $0.01-$0.02 per word, depending on the complexity of the project. Discounts are available for clients who are combining services.
Note: Editing is both objective and subjective, and no edit is perfect. While we make every effort to reduce errors and improve your text, we cannot guarantee 100% error-free results.
Formatting and Design
We can format your book interior and professionally design your digital and printed documents. We’ll be updating the site with additional details soon. In the meantime, contact us for more information.
Self-Publishing Support
We’ll be updating the site with additional details soon. In the meantime, contact us for more information.
Website Audit
We’ll be updating the site with additional details soon. In the meantime, contact us for more information.
Ready to get started?
Now that you’ve explored what we offer and narrowed down what you need, send us a message and let’s determine if this partnership is a good fit!
FAQ
Do you only edit Christian content?
No! Although our mission involves supporting Christian writers, we edit a wide range of content for a variety of authors. Send us a message, and we’ll send a copy of our Project Acceptance Policy.
Do you only edit manuscripts?
We can copyedit and proofread a variety of materials, including books, digital downloads, websites, academic documents, church documents, and more. Reach out with information on your project, and let’s discuss what you need.
How long will it take to complete my project.
Every project is different, so we can best answer this once you share the details of your particular project. If you’re into math, here are some numbers you can play with: a standard page is 250 words (double-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman font, 1″ margins), the average editor completes six pages per hour and works four to five hours each day.
I can't afford a professional editor right now. Any suggestions?
Start with Grammarly. It’s not perfect, and you’ll have to weed through its suggestions carefully, but it’s better than nothing. If you decide to self-edit, take some time away from your project, then come back with fresh eyes. Try to put yourself in the position of reader rather than writer as you review your work.
Can I just use AI to edit my project?
There are definitely some benefits to using AI, but it cannot replace a human editor. A human editor will better understand voice, tone, and context, and can pick up on subtleties that AI might miss. Feel free to use AI to assist with your editing and proofreading needs, but rely on a human for the finishing touch.