Bethany K
London, United Kingdom
“Sometimes, simple is better.”
Specialist subjects:
Editing formats:
Education:
MSc, Taxonomy, Biodiversity & Evolution
Imperial College London
2020–2021
BSc, Biology
University of Sussex
2009–2012
Favorite referencing style
I can adapt to any referencing style!
Why I became an editor
As I was completing my biology degree, I realized how much I enjoyed turning my research into writing. I became the go-to person to proofread and format dissertations for my friends and found enjoyment in the process. For this reason, I began work as a copy editor for a scientific journal following graduation. Since then, I’ve gained over six years of experience with copy editing and proofreading a range of material, helping people to improve their work and communicate their passion.
Background and experience
I began my editorial career as a copy editor for a scientific journal. Many submissions were from authors with English as a second language, and I particularly enjoyed working on these pieces and helping them to communicate through their work more clearly. I then progressed to an editorial manager for a Royal College in London, working on healthcare guidelines disseminated by the NHS. I have since worked in medical communications, where I gained further experience working with other formats, including presentations and posters. I recently completed an MSc in my specialisms of Biodiversity, Evolution, and Climate Sciences. I gained a distinction for my thesis, and I believe this is partly due to my experience with writing and communicating.
Why I love proofreading and editing
I’m very passionate about taking a piece of work and ensuring that it reads smoothly and accurately. I like to help people communicate in a punchy way that details the important points clearly. I have lots of experience with the nitty gritty aspects of this work, such as referencing and formatting, and find pleasure in making documents look professional and engaging. I especially enjoy proofreading scientific material, particularly on the topics of natural and climate sciences.
Favorite book:
Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari
Hobbies:
I like to explore the outdoors, try out new recipes, or meet a friend for a beer.
Editing tips:
My first step is always to ensure the formatting is consistent. That makes it easier to get into the proofreading. I usually begin with the title and headings, which help me to gauge an idea of the subject. Then I’ll delve in, skim reading first to learn how the writer communicates and then taking a deep dive into the proofreading and editing, making changes and using comments to help the reader understand my changes or where clarification is needed. It’s important that I only make necessary changes and still maintain the voice of the writer.
