Simon Q
Bucharest, Romania
“Word by word and line by line.”
Specialist subjects:
Editing formats:
Education:
Postgraduate Certificate in Primary Education
Institute of Education
2006–2007
PgDip in Journalism
London School of Journalism
2003–2004
BA in Media and Sociology
University of Sunderland
Class of 2002
Favorite referencing style
APA – because it is the style I have studied in the most detail and feel the most comfortable with.
Why I became an editor
I spent many years teaching very small children to read and write. I’m also a pretty mean finger painter. Now I have pivoted to (mostly) more grown-up reading material from (mostly) more mature writers. I get the joy of reading a wide range of subjects while still indulging my passion for helping others and satisfying my unquenchable thirst for spelling and grammar correction.
Background and experience
I've been an early years and primary school teacher for many years. I have also run my own business providing virtual reality experiences for children and teaching the ukulele. I was once a staff writer for a local newspaper and, as a box-office manager, spent many happy hours selling tickets to everything from stand-up comedy to West End shows.
Why I love proofreading and editing
Coming from a family of teachers and English graduates, I think I am genetically hard-wired for language and for error correction. Aside from the pleasure of getting to read and learn about so many fascinating subjects, there is also the chance to help others deliver their message more effectively. It's a puzzle, game and huge responsibility all in one wonderful package.
Favorite book:
‘Hatchet’ by Gary Paulsen
‘Where the Wild Things Are’ by Maurice Sendak
‘The Faraway Tree’ by Enid Blyton
Everything by Terry Pratchett
Hobbies:
I like to run, play the ukulele, cook and eat. I will sometimes combine these, but never all four together. I also enjoy flight simulators in VR. This cannot easily be combined with other activities.
Editing tips:
I have a workflow checklist that I can adapt for every piece of writing depending on the client. This gives me confidence from the start that I will not miss anything as I go through the document.
