Hello, I've been writing articles for a little while now. Someone that I work with has asked me if I would be interested in checking over some articles and correcting some grammer. A few of the sentences may need to be changed around to be more effective, but not positive on that. I honestly have no idea what a reasonable price is to give me a base point of what to charge. Any input is greatly appreciated.
First, find out if you're going to be proofreading (fixing grammar, spelling) or editing and revising (fixing structure, tone, content). Also ask to see a sample of what you're going to be revising. Then you'll have a better idea of what you're getting yourself into. Once you have the sample, do a little test on a page or paragraph and see how long it takes you to proof (and/or edit). From there, calculate your rate. While it would be nice to have a standard proofing rate, it's just too hard to do online where someone could send you a penny-article and expect you to revise it (NO THANK YOU).
I have three levels of editing and charge based on the level required. Proofreading is the lowest level (1). A fee-structure example might be: level 1: $4 per 100 words. level 2: $8 per 100 words. level 3: $12 per 100 words. BTW, the rates should be for internal use. Let's say a client wants you to proofread a 500-word document. Rather than saying your rate is $4 per 100 words, you'd tell the client that the project would be $20. Most projects aren't simply one level. For instance, if I'm editing a book, there may be chapters that require extensive work and others that just need to be proofed. As was suggested, you need to see the work to give a solid quote. The dollar rates given above are just examples. As rates go, your skill and experience as an editor come into play. You might charge $2 per page to proofread. In the end it really comes down to how hard you had to work and how much money you made for the time spent.
Thank you very much for the great information. It really helps me to see how others who have been doing this longer run their business.