Nicola R
Plymouth, United Kingdom
“For clear, concise, and consistent writing.”
Specialist subjects:
Editing formats:
Education:
BA (Hons) in English (Literary Studies) with Sociology
University of Exeter
2000–2003
Favorite referencing style
My preferred referencing style is APA. To pass the Becoming A Proofreader course I bought the APA style guide, which cost me a small fortune, and I would like to get as much use out of it as possible.
Why I became an editor
I have always held a passion and respect for the English language. I studied it at A level and degree level and ultimately taught English.
Proofreading is my perfect job because I have a passion for accuracy. To be able to help others by spending my time manipulating text and weeding out pesky errors is, to me, a privilege.
Background and experience
I have performed various different proofreading, formatting, and editing roles in the past: I was a typesetter for a web design company, I have designed advertisements and promotional material for 'Pride in Plymouth', and I have spent the last two years creating technical content for a company that produces scrolls. Each of these roles demanded extremely high levels of accuracy and precision.
Why I love proofreading and editing
I have found language fascinating since simultaneously studying English, French, and Welsh at GCSE. To me, proofreading is about the pursuit of perfection and helping others to create consistent communication.
Favorite book:
My literary tastes are eclectic. My favourite books include Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca, Margaret Mitchell's Gone with the Wind, and Sue Townsend's The Secret Diaries of Adrian Mole.
Hobbies:
When I'm not proofreading, I'm a mum to three teenagers and the wife of a paramedic. It's a busy, lively household!
Editing tips:
I read everything several times before I alter anything. It's vital that I establish what the writer wants to communicate and don't make any assumptions. It is the author's work and voice, not my own.
