Custom editing & writing services
Editing for businesses and individual authors
I offer professional beta reading, proofreading, copy editing, line editing, and substantive editing services with specializations in:
Nonfiction manuscripts: Great editing goes beyond surface corrections. My approach focuses on understanding your unique voice and vision, then providing strategic feedback that strengthens your manuscript's structure and flow while preserving what makes your storytelling distinctive.
Web copy: From strengthening your blog to finding that perfect headline, I'll tackle these tasks and more to engage your audience and drive traffic to your site using advanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) principles.
Academic editing: Have you completed the bulk of your dissertation or thesis, but need fresh eyes to ensure that your writing is free of typos and adheres to your academic program's style? I specialize in APA style and ensuring that your final draft is error-free.
Beta reading for fiction and nonfiction manuscripts: I provide constructive, honest feedback focusing on clarity, pacing, enjoyment, and how your story resonates.
Whether you want to start a new project, or take content that's already good and make it great, I can help you take your work to the next level.
Ghostwriting for executives and memoirists: Have you always wanted to write that memoir, but don't know where to start? My ghostwriting services will help you turn your idea into a reality. I'll work closely with you to tell your unique story in a clear, engaging, and authentic way that truly lets your voice shine.
If you're an executive in need of a ghost writer, I specialize in speech writing, promotional communications (such as targeted emails and social media), blogs, and more.
TESTIMONIALS
"Abby is the best editor I’ve ever worked with. She is incredibly detail-oriented, meets all deadlines, and is a pleasure to work with. She truly cared about making my book the best that it could be, which is evidenced by the finished product. I would recommend her to anyone looking for a conscientious, thorough, and communicative editor."
-Carrie Khang, author of "Stop Yelling, Start Connecting with Your Child: Peaceful Parenting Guide to Handle Misbehavior, Tame Tantrums, and Raise Emotionally Resilient Kids"
"It has been such a miraculous encounter for me to discover and work with Abby. She has been extraordinarily generous with her time and expansive with her perspective and capability. She has helped me to hone my argument of my thesis whilst maintaining my unique voice, and has been a huge source of encouragement for me. I recommend Abby for anyone looking for a caring, analytic and artful editor."
- Orly Faya Snir, artist and author
"Abby is a great creative writer. She's currently helping me write and edit my book — a project I've been working on for 20 years — and she is about to finish it for me. I'm so excited!"
-Dwight Williams, fitness influencer and health advocate
"Working with Abby on a Beta read for my novel was the best decision I've made in a long time. She worked quickly and methodically and provided a helpful, comprehensive assessment while still connecting to the heart and essence of my work. She mapped out what to expect and communicated throughout so I always felt informed. I was anxious this process might be discouraging, but it was the exact opposite. It was empowering and I'm so grateful to Abby for guiding me through it.
She was honest, thoughtful and encouraging at every juncture. She has great suggestions and her feedback helped me connect some dots and address some of the gaps I'd been wrestling with. The completed Beta report is now a valuable tool which will help inform my final steps in the writing process.
If you are working on a writing project and need honest outside review and feedback to get it to completion, Abby is your person! I already want to work with her again on other projects."
- Allie L., author
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About Abby Reid: Editor & Writer, Washington, D.C.
A keen editor and digital storyteller, I derive a great deal of joy (probably too much!) from turning complex content into easily digestible information for a wide range of audiences.
I have over 15 years of experience as a communicator with the federal government, with a B.A. in English Literature from Ithaca College, and an M.A. in Communication from Johns Hopkins University.
Fun fact: In a former life I was a karate instructor, and hold black belts in Tang Soo Do and Jiu Jitsu.
Contact
Let's chat! Reach out for a free consultation.
Abby's 'A list': Free online resources
Editing
Grammar Girl's editing checklist
From passive voice to shifts in verb tenses, you'll want this guide by your side when editing any piece of content.
Grammarly's top commonly confused words
Not sure if you're using "me" or "I" correctly? What about "has" vs. "have"? If you're getting your wires crossed, check out this list of commonly misused words.
Plainlanguage.gov
The Plain Writing Act of 2010 requires federal agencies to use clear language when communicating with the public. But you don't have to be a fed to apply those same concepts to your own writing. Plainlanguage.gov has a wide range of free training.
Writing
Purdue's Online Writing Lab
Improve your writing style, tone and structure with tips from the acclaimed Purdue University Online Writing Lab.
The Elements of Style
An oldie but a goodie, applying advice from this small but mighty classic is sure to make your writing more clear and concise.
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft
You don't have to be a Stephen King fan to get motivated by what has become a classic among those seeking writing advice. Part memoir, part writing primer, this one-of-a-kind book is sure to inspire, educate, and entertain.
"The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and a lightning bug." - Mark Twain
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