For PhD and master’s researchers
Academic copy editing and proofreading for your thesis or dissertation
Your thesis or dissertation is the result of years of original research. The writing should be as clear and exact as the work you’ve put into it. I copy edit and proofread your PhD or master’s work for language, consistency, flow, and formatting. That includes editing to APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard, or your department’s own guide. I’ll make sure that your argument, your evidence, and your voice stay yours.
“More than 20 years editing postgraduate and doctoral work. Every piece is edited by me, personally. ”
Editing across the disciplines
Whatever field your thesis is in, there’s a good chance I’ve worked in it before. You know the subject inside out. I’ll make sure the writing does it justice.
Who you’re working with
I’m Tara, and I’ve worked as a professional editor for many years. I have a journalism and communications degree from American University, and a postgraduate certificate in copy editing from Temple University. I’ve edited theses, dissertations, and postgraduate work for more than 20 years, helping academics like you get your ideas across. I know how important your degree is, so everything is handled by me, from the first read to the last.
If you’d like to know more about me and the work I do, you can read about my background and experience.
What’s included
Here’s what you can expect when I edit your work:
Both copy editing and proofreading, on every project
Two full reads of your work
Comments and practical advice in the document
A tracked-changes version and a clean final version
Editing to your required style and referencing guide
Aftercare: when you’ve made your changes, I’ll re-edit them at no extra cost
I edit and proofread work you’ve already written. I’m not a ghostwriter, and I don’t write or create content from scratch.
See how my editing process works.
Your expertise stays yours
You’re the expert on your subject, so everything I do starts from that. My job is to make your academic writing as clear and consistent as possible. I’ll make sure that your ideas, argument, and conclusions come through and land well. I don’t fact-check your statements or sources, as you’re the expert there. But if an edit might change your meaning, I’ll flag it for you. When I send your work back, it will still sound like you, just clearer and more precise.
What my clients say
“Tara assisted with the APA editing and formatting of a 300+ page research report. I could not have completed this project without her. She was a thoughtful and collaborative partner throughout and always prompt. This was a huge lift and she exceeded expectations.”
“Tara has helped to edit and proof-read assignments for my MSc. Her great attention to detail in grammar, sentence structure, formatting, and referencing has resulted in quality writing and excellent marks. She returns work very quickly too. I would have no hesitation in recommending her outstanding editing services.”
“I’m very happy with your editing and helpful comments which improved the flow and clarity of the thesis. I will certainly recommend you.”
What it costs
Pricing is simple and all-inclusive, with no add-ons or surprises.
Questions people often ask
Will working with an editor affect my academic integrity?
I edit for language, clarity, and consistency. I don’t write your content, change your argument, or add ideas, so the work stays entirely yours. Many universities allow this kind of copy editing and proofreading, but policies vary, so it’s worth checking your institution’s guidance. I’ll always work within it.
Do you check whether my facts and sources are correct?
No. You’re the expert on your subject, so I don’t verify your facts, check your sources, or confirm that a reference supports the point you’re making. If I notice something that looks inconsistent, I’ll flag it for you to review.
Can you edit to my university’s style and formatting requirements?
Yes. I work to APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard, or your department’s own guide. I’ll format your citations and reference list for consistency. Send me the requirements and I’ll follow them.
English isn’t my first language. Can you help, and does it cost more?
Yes. I often edit work by researchers writing in English as an additional language, at the same flat rate, with no surcharge. If anything about your work needs more than standard editing, I’ll talk it through with you before we begin.
Is my work kept confidential?
Yes. Your work, and the fact that you’ve worked with me, stays private unless you tell me otherwise. I’m happy to sign a non-disclosure agreement if you or your institution need one.
How long will my edit take, and can you meet my deadline?
It depends on the length of your work and how busy my schedule is, so I’ll confirm a timeline with you before we begin. Tell me your deadline when you get in touch and I’ll let you know what’s realistic. Your work will get the careful attention it needs, and I’ll always be honest if a deadline is too tight to do it justice.
Ready when you are
When you’ve spent years on your research, your writing deserves the same care. I’ll give your thesis or dissertation a final, careful read so it’s ready for submission. Whenever you’re ready, I’d be glad to hear what you’re working on.
If your work is heading for publication rather than a degree, see my research and journal article editing. For an academic book, see my non-fiction editing.