FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Services
After reviewing your manuscript and discussing your project goals with you, I will recommend the the type of editing that would best serve your needs. Please see a description of my services here.
Yes, I am perfectly willing to enter into an agreement with a client to edit documents from time to time according to a specific schedule or as the need arises. The latter case would be subject to my availability at the time.
No, I edit only nonfiction.
I edit business and government documents, academic manuscripts, booklets and pamphlets, essays, articles, white papers, newsletters, product manuals, and websites (text only, not design). I will gladly consider accepting other types of documents, however, so please ask.
I prefer to edit in areas where I have some expertise, or at least familiarity. My experience has been mainly in business, economics, and finance. However, I would consider other areas, including international affairs, public policy, nonprofit, ecology, and tourism.
No, but I would be happy to refer you to an organization of Japanese-English translators in Tokyo.
I prefer to work directly with the author, translator, or publisher. I would, however, consider working with an agent provided I have direct access to the author or translator for editing queries.
Editing
I am most familiar with The Chicago Manual of Style and use it where appropriate. I can also edit using The Associated Press Stylebook or a client's in-house style guide, if the client prefers.
I edit only to American-English standards.
I have long experience editing for nonnative English speakers, especially Japanese speakers. In collaboration with the author, I can improve the flow of sentences and recommend natural-sounding words and phrases. Paragraph and document organization can also be revised to conform to English structural style. I often recommend substantive editing as the best method for achieving these goals.
I prefer to receive a manuscript in its entirety before beginning to edit. Editorial consistency can be better maintained that way. However, if time constraints necessitate editing on a writing-flow basis, I would consider it after consultation with the client.
Every manuscript is different in length, level of editing required, and deadline for completion. It is necessary for me to review the original manuscript and discuss a client’s time and budget constraints in order to provide a time estimate for completion.
Payment
My rates vary depending on the manuscript type, subject matter, level of editing required, and client’s time constraints. I can charge by the word or by the project. I provide an estimate only after evaluating the manuscript and consulting with the client.
I accept payment in US dollars or Japanese yen by credit card using Stripe or Paypal. Payment in Japanese yen can also be made by bank transfer.
Accessibility
Please go to my Contact page and complete the form there. I will respond by email, usually within two business days.
I prefer to communicate with clients via Zoom or Skype, both of which allow for video conferencing without the cost of time and travel. Ongoing communication about a project can generally be handled by email. However, if a client is local, a meeting in person might be arranged.