WordWiser Ink Editing Lab
Editorial Rate Guide
Copyediting, Copyediting+, and final-format proofreading for authors, publishers, businesses, nonprofits, and specialist teams.
All rates are in U.S. dollars. Your final estimate is tailored to your material, scope, and deadline.
Swipe or scroll the table horizontally to see all services.
| Material type | Copyediting | Copyediting+ | Proofreading |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiction | $0.030–$0.040 | $0.045–$0.060 | $0.020–$0.025 |
| Memoir & general nonfiction | $0.035–$0.050 | $0.050–$0.070 | $0.025–$0.035 |
| Business & nonprofit | $0.040–$0.055 | $0.055–$0.075 | $0.025–$0.035 |
| Technical documentation | $0.045–$0.065 | $0.060–$0.085 | $0.030–$0.045 |
| Medical & scientific | $0.050–$0.070 | $0.065–$0.090 | $0.035–$0.045 |
For example, $0.035 per word = 3.5¢ per word = $35 per 1,000 words. Rates reflect the material and work required, whether commissioned by an author or an organization.
Copyediting
Mechanics and consistency. Grammar, spelling, punctuation, usage, and style-guide application; a new or supplied style sheet; internal consistency and continuity; and review of relevant tables, figures, lists, front and back matter, cover copy, and links.
Copyediting+
Added clarity and flow. Includes copyediting plus focused improvements to awkward wording, repetition, transitions, readability, and flow while preserving voice and intent.
This premium service does not include developmental editing, structural revision, a separate comprehensive line edit, or a post-layout proofread.
Proofreading
The final-format check. For previously copyedited material after layout or in its final digital format. Checks remaining mechanical errors, duplicated text, conversion glitches, typography and layout consistency, headings, captions, hyperlinks, and contents-page references.
Proofreading does not replace copyediting.
How your estimate is determined
Final pricing follows review of the material, word count, editing needs, subject complexity, references, file format, and deadline. Dense tables, reference-heavy documents, short pieces, and complex layouts may require a custom project fee.
Your written estimate specifies deliverables, rounds, schedule, and any rush charges. Additional revisions and post-layout proofreading are scoped separately.
Request a tailored estimatePricing guidance, not a binding quote. Existing contracted rates remain governed by the applicable agreement.