Frequently Asked Questions

How do you edit

Please submit your piece in Word.

I’ll track changes so you can see what I suggest.

When I return the document to you, you’ll get the Word file plus a letter from me identifying any more systemic work that could be done.

How long will it take

Less than ten pages to edit? Next-day turnaround.

More than ten pages to edit? Tell me when you need it.

How much does it cost

I charge a flat rate of $40/hour.

On average, I can edit 5 pages an hour.

The minimum charge is a 1/2 hour, or $20.00.

I invoice through a Tidy Words LLC Venmo account.

How do I book services

Send an email to tidywordsllc at gmail.com with:

  • The document

  • Your name

  • The page count

  • The due date

  • Where the document will be submitted

  • Any particular questions or concerns you have

  • The style guide you prefer (AMA, APA, Chicago, or MLA)

What are your qualifications

Amy Chen

  • 2023-, Senior Project Manager (and sometimes copyeditor), Precigen Exemplar

  • 2022, Published my second book

  • 2021-, Editor at Tidy Words (freelance)

  • 2020-2023, Medical Editor, JMI Labs (full-time)

  • 2020, Published my book

  • 2015-2020, Librarian, University of Iowa

  • 2013-2015, Librarian, University of Alabama

  • 2013, PhD in English, Emory University

  • 2009-2014, Private writing tutor

  • 2008-2013, Composition Instructor

  • 2006, BA Honors in English, University of Iowa

  • 2004-2006, Writing Fellow, University of Iowa

What subjects do you cover

I specialize in

  • Humanities

  • Library and Information science

  • Life sciences