Independent Authors
copyediting, line editing

You have a story to tell, expertise to share, wisdom to impart. Make sure you also have the editorial help you need to refine, enhance, and polish your message.
Before you work with me or another line editor/copyeditor, make sure you’re satisfied that you’ve drafted the final version of your work. If you’re still uncertain about big-picture aspects—like focus, content, structure, tone—you’ll want to collaborate with a developmental editor for feedback and guidance on rewriting to arrive at your final draft.
That’s where I come in. Depending on your concerns and desires for your manuscript, you may request a line edit, copyedit, or both. (See Services for a detailed description of each.) A copyedit—the polish—is necessary for professional publishing. At the very least, copyediting catches errors of grammar and punctuation and the like and addresses points of style. A line edit, however, is optional and is about enhancing your piece for more compelling and effective writing before copyediting.
After my copyediting and your revising, your finalized manuscript will be ready for design layout and proofreading.
Titles




Testimonials
Dana is an excellent editor and thought partner. I have had the pleasure of working with her on two major projects: a dissertation and a book. Through both processes, Dana exemplified professionalism, patience, and expert knowledge on what was necessary to create an exemplary written product. Dana was timely in her responses and worked diligently with me as ideas were exchanged and continuous edits occurred. She worked to promote my unique voice and message, never once dismantling my original meaning. She has a laser-like focus on refining writing skills and techniques. Dana worked to ensure that I was valued as a writer and never minimized work submitted or thoughts shared. Dana never disappointed with her delivery of materials to me, and I definitely considered her a valuable resource. — Antoinette Pearson, EdD, CEO and Lead Consultant of Common Sense Learning
I sought Ms. Johnson’s editing services while working on my very first book. I knew I had made the right decision during our initial consultation, when she helped me understand the nuances of editing as they pertained to my manuscript. Once I had decided to retain her copyediting services, the contract process was seamless, and the timeline aligned with my expectations. The finished product was far more thorough than I expected as a first-time author. Her attention to detail and knowledge of the publishing process helped improve my manuscript and better anticipate what to expect. I would recommend Ms. Johnson to anyone looking for a first-class copy editor whose value far exceeds the cost of retaining her for services. — Sherman Gillums Jr., Adjunct Professor at University Maryland Global Campus
Dana is absolutely gifted at what she does. After speaking with several other highly recommended editors, I knew she was the perfect person to edit my book within seconds of connecting with her. She is professional, knowledgeable, positive, and truly a pleasure to work with. It was apparent in every interaction I had with her that she loves what she does, and it shows in her work product. Dana had a way of knowing and understanding my voice, and I used almost every single edit and revision she suggested for my book. She understood my vision beautifully. — Ginger Marie Corwin, Life Coach
Most recently, Dana worked on an edited volume of essays involving 25 authors, How to Respond in a Pandemic: 25 Ideas from 25 Disciplines of Study. Dana’s copyediting established a coherence to the many voices, and her attention to detail was essential for ensuring that footnotes and references met professional standards. Writing is difficult, and readers are impatient when things are not clear. Everyone needs careful eyes as keen as Dana’s to assess their writing and make it better. — Joan Ferrante, PhD, Professor of Sociology at Northern Kentucky University; Founder and Director of the Mourning the Creation of Racial Categories Project