Deft Touch Editorial
About Deft Touch Editorial
Deft Touch Editorial is owned and run by me – Cat. I've been working with clients from all over the world since 2010 on texts ranging from journal articles to novels and from academic dissertations to cover letters and CVs. I specialise in working with non-native English speakers, academics, and authors (fiction and non-fiction/memoir).
What can I do for you?
You can find out more about the services I offer below. If you're not quite sure about the level of support you need, then tell me the end result you are looking for and we'll work out how to get there! Rest assured that all quotes are obligation free.
Proofreading
Proofreading is the final step of the writing process. It ensures that the final draft of your document is free of mistakes by chekcing for any remaining language, punctuation, and presentation errors (e.g. punctuation, spelling, grammar, UK/US style, formatting).
Copyediting
Copyediting is more in-depth than proofreading and is carried out earlier in the writing process. In addition to correcting language and presentation errors, a copyedit will address key areas including clarity, expression, repetition, structure, and voice.
Structural editing
Strutural editing (sometimes called 'developmental' or 'substantive' editing) is the most complex stage of the editing process. It evaluates your manuscript as a whole by looking at the argument/structure, pacing, tone, and voice (non-fiction/academic) or the plot, structure, characterisation, voice, pacing, dialogue, and flow (fiction).
Academic editing
Academic editing is tailored to your specific needs, whether that's a proofread before publication/submitting to publishers or a copyedit to give your manuscript an extra polish. Consistency with style guides is also checked (i.e. in-house style guides and style manuals such as APA).
Proofreading for students (theses and dissertations) ensures your manuscript is free of language and presentation errors before submission.
ESL editing
ESL editing is a hybrid form of copyediting and proofreading (sometimes known as a 'proofedit'); it ensures that writing produced by a non-native English speaker reads fluently – as though written a native speaker.
You can rest assured that you are in capable hands: I'm an experienced EFL teacher (CELTA trained) and language learner (French, German, and Swedish), with over 15 years' experience in this field.
Manuscript support
I offer various services for writers working on fiction and non-fiction, ranging from work-in-progress support and feedback to manuscript appraisals.
Work-in-progress support includes feedback on draft chapters and feedback on areas under development (e.g. structure, characterisation, themes). A manuscript appraisal includes a report that identifies the strengths of your manuscript and areas for improvement; the aim is supporting you to take your next steps with confidence!
Testimonials
Read what clients say about working with me
Tanveer Ahsan Associate Professor
Rennes School of Business
'I have had the pleasure of working with Cat for the past few years. Her exceptional attention to detail, mastery of grammar, and keen eye for consistency have significantly enhanced the quality of my publications. Cat ensures that every piece is polished and professional and offers insightful feedback that elevates the overall clarity and impact of the content. Her commitment to excellence and timely delivery has made her an invaluable asset. I highly recommend Cat to anyone seeking top-notch editorial services. Here is a link to our recent publication edited by Cat.'
Dr Ge Liu
Lecturer
Coventry University London
'Cat is an excellent proofreader with a high level of speciality and patience. My work has been proofread professionally and promptly. It has been a great pleasure to work with Cat for many years!'
Dr Qian Wang
Former doctoral researcher
University of Edinburgh
'Cat has helped me by proofreading my entire thesis, in addition to other pieces of work, since the second year of my PhD. Her work is always high standard and on time. I had a very productive and happy time working with Cat. I definitely will continue working with her.'
Get in touch!
I'd love to hear about the project you're working on and how I can help. Drop me a line!
E-mail: cat@defttoucheditorial.com