Alex demonstrated thorough attention to each word selected for the manuscript, which pushed me to think about every single word I used on a deeper level.
– First-time fiction author
Dear Alex, I have no words to thank you for proofreading and editing my materials carefully. You exceeded my expectations by giving constructive feedback on how the quality of the materials can be improved. As someone new to materials writing, I really appreciate the kind of feedback you have given. I have no hesitation in recommending your work to anyone who may require your services.
– Rusiru Chitrasena, PhD candidate in ELT 2022
With over 30 years’ experience in publishing and education worldwide, I am the editor you can trust to be flexible, approachable and non-judgemental. Let me help you communicate your ideas in clear English.
Publishers – I have the skills to identify inconsistencies and cross-check all the components of your non-fiction and language learning materials.
Creative writers – I offer a fresh pair of eyes to help you reach your readers effortlessly.
Academic authors – Please allow me to tidy up your paragraphs and reword phrases to help your readers follow your arguments.
Companies – Let me cast an eagle eye over your presentations and reports. I will follow your style guide and spot those easy-to-miss typos and omissions.
I hold a Master’s degree in education and am a Professional Member of the UK’s esteemed professional standards body, the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading. I follow the Chicago Manual of Style and New Hart’s Rules, or your choice of style guide.
I’m a Spanish speaker with a long history of international experience.
Copyediting
Do you need me to tidy up your blogpost, creative writing or thesis? I can sensitively re-phrase your words line by line, keeping the reader in mind. I’m a fan of plain-English editing, but equally at home with an extensive vocabulary range and complex sentence structures.
Proofreading
Do you need me to check your punctuation, grammar and spelling? I can review your documents at short notice, improving overall readability and accuracy.
Writing
Do you need me to write your English language learning materials? I have wide experience in writing teacher guides, student books and workbooks for all levels.
Alex supplied a service that not only met what I asked for but went beyond what I thought I needed. I wouldn’t hesitate in commissioning her skills again.
– Lucas Stewart, author 2021
Qualifications and training
- Adobe InCopy for WoodWing
- How to mark up PDF proofs
- Word for Practical Editing (CIEP)
- Avallain Author: introduction & a deeper dive (ELTpp)
- Copyediting 1 & 2 (CIEP)
- Proofreading 1 & 2 (CIEP)
- Master of Arts in Education
- PGCE secondary school
- TEFL Diploma
- Bachelor of Arts: English, Visual Art and Theatre Studies
Clients
English teaching
- St. George’s International School, Rome
- The British School, Caracas
- Alice Smith School, Kuala Lumpur
- British Council: teacher, teacher trainer, e-moderator.
Alex has a great attention to detail and is willing to explain any stylistic inconsistencies she encounters.
– Fraser Barratt, Compass Publishing 2020
Why trust me?
I follow the CIEP code of practice and can send you a sample edit with a quote that justifies my fee, along with my terms and conditions. We would agree a contract (a simple email is fine) that reflects your preferences and the industry standards.
Do you need a proofreader or copyeditor?
Get in touch
Free samples of 300–500 words. Let’s find out if you and I are a good fit – I’ll show you what I can do. There’s no such thing as a silly question, ask away!
How much will this cost?
My rates vary according to your needs, please feel free to send me a sample and we can talk. As a guide, see the CIEP recommended rates here.
Alex Mackenzie 