Sally W

United Kingdom

“A truly obsessive word-pedant.”

Specialist subjects:

Criminology English History Language & Literature Law Linguistics Marketing Medieval & Modern Languages Music Photography

Editing formats:

Education:

LLB (Hons), First Class

Open University

2017

MSc in Law, Business & Management, Distinction

University of Law

2019

PgDip in Legal Practice, Distinction

University of Law

2019

Favorite referencing style

OSCOLA – simply because I am so used to it!

Why I became an editor

I have a lifelong fascination with languages, linguistics and etymology and have worked as a proofreader and copywriter for over 20 years.
I began copy-editing for independent authors some years ago alongside working as a solicitor and have recently begun to specialise in science fiction, crime/legal thrillers (obviously) and historical fiction.
My legal background gives me a unique eye for detail and minutiae, and I take great pride in high standards of editorial practice.

Background and experience

I have worked as a proofreader and copywriter for large international organisations and small businesses, naturally evolving into editing for independent authors. I am a practising lawyer, which gives me a unique advantage in certain genres but also keeps my attention to detail well and truly honed!

Why I love proofreading and editing

I love to help authors with that final polish, taking a great story to the point of publishing-ready finesse! I have loved to read since I was two years old, and nothing brings me quite as much joy as sitting down with something new to read. It is a privilege to be able to improve and perfect a piece of writing, whether it is a fiction manuscript, marketing pamphlet or insurance contract!

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Favorite book:

I really enjoyed ‘Cloud Atlas’ by David Mitchell; it was so different in style and execution, and I love many-layered stories that are cleverly tied together.

Hobbies:

My other true love is music, both playing and listening, and I am a big sci-fi fan!

Editing tips:

I prefer editing on paper where possible and use a ruler to go through line by line. I also recommend reading a piece out loud. This really helps to spot things that are easily overlooked.

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