All writers (all honest ones, at least) struggle to ensure that the messages they formulate are the same that are received by the reader. The best way to ensure that every effort has been made to send a clear, easy-to-comprehend communication is with the support of an editor. The editor can, among other contributions, challenge an argument’s logic, clarify ideas, or suggest stylistic modifications to improve both the effectiveness of a text and strengthen the impression of the writer that it leaves with the reader. The back-and-forth communication between an author and their editor helps to transform a good idea into a compelling document.
I have grouped my editing services into roughly three categories:
I have experience drafting a variety of documents for organizations in which I either worked or which engaged me as a consultant. I have gathered the preliminary ideas and information from the client to craft the message they want to convey to the reader. It can range from highly technical material to projects meant for an audience of laypeople. This service can take several forms:
Discretionary – where the client identifies an audience and a subject. The objective is to draft a document based on broad, general discussions with the client.
Directed – the client wants a particular message to land with a specific audience. Quite often these are advocacy documents, e.g., submissions to government on policy or proposed legislation or regulations.
Integrated – I have experience integrating input from a variety of sources to create a single document. This involves arranging structure, ensuring a logical flow, as well as editing and re-writing. The objective is to prepare a final product that is seamless, coherent, clear, and persuasive.
A writer is someone for whom writing is more difficult than it is for other people – Thomas Mann
