Academic Editing and Coaching for Social Science and Humanities Scholars
Editing Services
I consider each project on an individual basis, taking into account where you are in the writing process and what kind of support will serve you best. If your draft is nearly complete but needs some polishing, you’d most likely be interested in copy editing. Developmental editing is best suited to projects in the middle or early stages.
I specialize in the social sciences and humanities, but I am open to projects from any discipline. Just keep in mind that, when engaging with work from other fields, I might be less familiar with disciplinary conventions and terminology.
Copy Editing
For a typical copy edit, I pay attention to:
- Grammar, spelling, and punctuation
- Word choice and sentence structure, with a focus on clarity
- Formatting and references, either for consistency or compliance with journal/publisher guidelines
Developmental Editing
With a developmental edit, I focus on elements such as:
- Structure, organization, and flow
- Strength and clarity of the central argument
- Theoretical framework and concept formation
- Suitability of writing style to the intended readership
- Optional: In addition to inline comments, you can opt for a detailed, multi-page report on what’s working and what needs improvement. This can serve as an action plan for revision.
Fees and Payment
Copy editing: Copy editing is priced per word. Because each project is at a different stage, fees are determined on a case-by-case basis. Once I have received your message, I will request a sample of the writing in order to calculate the rate. Once you have approved the quote and we have agreed on a timeline, I’ll get to work! Payment is due when editing is finished.
Developmental editing: Developmental editing is priced hourly. You will always have a rough estimate of the final cost and I will keep you informed if anything changes during the editing. Most importantly, we will discuss your budget beforehand so that there are no unpleasant surprises. Payment is due when editing is finished.
If you haven't worked with an editor before, this might all seem a bit abstract. The simplest way to learn more is to schedule a conversation using the link below. It's free and non-binding.
Coaching entails personalized, one-to-one support that addresses both the craft of writing and the challenges that can stand in the way. Before we begin, we’ll talk through your current struggles and your goals. You might find, as I do, that “coaching” doesn’t quite capture the range of possibilities. It might take the form of a personal writing workshop to problem-shoot your work in progress or sharpen particular writing skills. Perhaps you’re finally ready to write your first book and it’s equal parts exciting and terrifying. Or maybe you’re in need of accountability, motivation, and time management support. Often, the factors impacting our writing have little to do with writing directly. Of course it’s hard to stay on track when you’re on the edge of burnout, dealing with imposter syndrome, living with disability or chronic illness, or not receiving adequate support from supervisors. Coaching can cover any of these topics and more. Together, we’ll work through both the practical and personal factors that shape your writing life. This can also be combined with editing services.
Some examples of what we can work on:
- In‑depth guidance from early draft through to submission or revision
- Accountability and time management strategies to keep projects moving
- Developing specific writing or revision skills
- Tackling complex peer review feedback and turning it into a clear action plan
- Planning, structuring, and writing a book or other large‑scale project
- Setting realistic goals and creating a sustainable writing routine
- Specialized coaching and mentorship for neurodivergent scholars—particularly autistic folks and ADHDers. As a proud AuDHDer with research expertise in neurodiversity studies, I understand the difficult reality of navigating academic life as a neurodivergent person. This type of coaching may still focus on writing, but often extends to broader issues such as burnout, masking, and self-advocacy skills.
The practical details:
- Session Options: Choose from a one‑time coaching session or a package of weekly sessions (one or two months).
- Pricing:
- €125 — Individual 60‑minute session
- €400 — One month of weekly sessions (4 total)
- €775 — Two months of weekly sessions (8 total)
- Payment: Prices are listed in euros, but payment is accepted from anywhere in the world.
- Location & Time Zones: I’m based in the Netherlands. Some time zones may be trickier to coordinate, but I’ll do my best to find a time that works for you.
- Follow‑Up: Each session includes a brief follow‑up email summarizing the key takeaways from our meeting.