for complex, research-driven work
Developmental Editing & Research Consultancy
For writers
Is your argument not quite coming through? Do you find yourself going over the text again and again, but still feel unable to finish? The different parts of the project are just not coming together? Sometimes the best way forward is to step back and get a fresh perspective. That’s where I can help.
While you give your brain a respite, I work with your ideas and structure to bring clarity, sharpen your argument, and help you see new possibilities in your work.
When you return to your writing, you have a clearer sense of what the text could become and a strong foundation to develop it.
For organisations working with research
You’re great at what you do, but research is not your core business. Whether you need to pull together a research report, design a questionnaire, develop a targeted research project, or simply have someone with research expertise give your approach a critical second look, I can help.
I bring social research expertise to the projects that require time, methodological thinking, and an outside perspective. From designing research and questionnaires to analysing material and communicating findings clearly, I support your organisation's efficiency.
You get the research support you need, without taking your team away from the work they do best.
How Point Across can help
- Developmental editingDevelopmental editing helps complex, research-driven work become clearer, stronger and more purposeful. It focuses on the bigger picture: argument, structure, ideas, evidence, narrative and helps identify what needs to be developed, reorganised or reconsidered.
- Research consultancyResearch consultancy provides independent support at different stages of the research process, from developing research questions and approaches to analysing, interpreting and communicating findings. It brings an experienced research perspective to projects that require critical thinking, qualitative insight or help making sense of complex material.
Why choose Point Across
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High qualityRigorous, thoughtful work that brings clarity, depth, and coherence to complex research, writing, and ideas. -
SupportA collaborative process that provides space to ask questions, work through challenges, test ideas, and make informed decisions at every stage of a project. -
ExperienceExtensive experience in research, writing, editing, and working with complex ideas across academic and applied contexts. -
Individual approachEvery project has its own questions, challenges, and ambitions. The approach is tailored to the project's objectives, material, audience, and stage of development.
Who is it for
For researchers, writers, organisations and professionals working with complex ideas, research and evidence looking for an experienced outside perspective to help move a project forward.
- Developmental editingFor books, articles, reports and other substantial projects.
- Research consultancyFor research design, analysis, interpretation and strategy.
Who will you be working with
You will work with Beata, a trained anthropologist with over a decade of experience in editing, writing, and designing social research.
Beata holds a PhD in Anthropology from University College London and is Co-Editor-in-Chief of a multidisciplinary journal on Asia. Her work spans editorial work, academic publishing, and applied research with a strong foundation in ethnography.
She has edited and written books, peer-reviewed articles, research reports, developed qualitative and questionnaire-based studies, and advised on multimedia ethnographic projects.
How it works
Find out the typical process
Every project is different, so the process is adapted to the scope, stage and needs of the work. The following outlines the usual approach.
1. Initial assessment
The process begins with a conversation about the project, its aims, its current stage, and the kind of support you are looking for. Where appropriate, a sample or part of the manuscript is reviewed to identify the main developmental needs and establish scope, timeline and priorities.
2. Developmental editing
The work is reviewed with attention to the project as a whole: argument, structure, coherence, ideas, evidence, narrative and positioning. Feedback may take the form of comments and suggestions within the manuscript, a separate editorial report, or a combination of both.
For longer projects, the work can be divided into sections or chapters. This allows feedback and revisions to develop alongside the editing rather than waiting until the entire manuscript has been completed.
3. Discussion and revision
Editorial feedback is discussed with you so that priorities and possible changes are clear. You remain the author and decision-maker throughout: suggestions are there to support the development of the work, not to impose a particular solution.
4. Further development
Where the project requires it, a further round of editing can focus on the changes made in response to the initial feedback. This may involve revisiting structure or argument, developing newly added material, addressing outstanding issues, and checking that revisions work across the project as a whole.
1. Initial assessment
The process begins with a conversation about the project, its aims, its current stage, and the kind of support you are looking for. Where appropriate, a sample or part of the manuscript is reviewed to identify the main developmental needs and establish scope, timeline and priorities.
2. Developmental editing
The work is reviewed with attention to the project as a whole: argument, structure, coherence, ideas, evidence, narrative and positioning. Feedback may take the form of comments and suggestions within the manuscript, a separate editorial report, or a combination of both.
For longer projects, the work can be divided into sections or chapters. This allows feedback and revisions to develop alongside the editing rather than waiting until the entire manuscript has been completed.
3. Discussion and revision
Editorial feedback is discussed with you so that priorities and possible changes are clear. You remain the author and decision-maker throughout: suggestions are there to support the development of the work, not to impose a particular solution.
4. Further development
Where the project requires it, a further round of editing can focus on the changes made in response to the initial feedback. This may involve revisiting structure or argument, developing newly added material, addressing outstanding issues, and checking that revisions work across the project as a whole.
- The number and scope of stages are agreed in advance and can be adjusted as the project develops.
Research consultancy is often iterative. As questions are explored and new insights emerge, the problem, research approach, or direction may evolve. While every project is different, the process is likely to involve the following steps:
1. Frame
Clarify the problem, context, aims, and what you are trying to understand.
2. Explore
Question assumptions, examine different perspectives, and identify possible directions.
3. Develop
Work through promising questions, approaches, and ideas. Depending on the project, this may involve literature, qualitative material, workshops, interviews, or other forms of investigation.
4. Reframe
Step back and assess what has emerged. The research question, approach, or problem may change as understanding develops.
5. Move forward
Translate the resulting insights into a research strategy, next stage of investigation, report, publication, creative output, or other practical application.
1. Frame
Clarify the problem, context, aims, and what you are trying to understand.
2. Explore
Question assumptions, examine different perspectives, and identify possible directions.
3. Develop
Work through promising questions, approaches, and ideas. Depending on the project, this may involve literature, qualitative material, workshops, interviews, or other forms of investigation.
4. Reframe
Step back and assess what has emerged. The research question, approach, or problem may change as understanding develops.
5. Move forward
Translate the resulting insights into a research strategy, next stage of investigation, report, publication, creative output, or other practical application.
Send a short description of your work
We will discuss
scope, timeline and fit.
Not sure which service is right for your needs?
We can work that out together.
scope, timeline and fit.
Not sure which service is right for your needs?
We can work that out together.
How much will it cost
Every project is assessed individually.
Below are indicative investment ranges for common types of collaboration.
Books
from $2,000
For book-length nonfiction and extended manuscripts requiring structural clarification, argument refinement, and conceptual coherence.
- Typical range for a 30,000-word manuscript: $2,000–$3,500
- Projects involving substantial restructuring or ongoing collaboration are scoped individually.
Research Articles
$1,000–$2,000
For academic or long-form analytical writing (approx. 8,000 words).
- The range reflects the difference between a single comprehensive editorial pass and more iterative structural development.
Multimedia Projects
$1,000–$2,500
For narrative and conceptual development of long-form projects (e.g., 60-minute film).
- More complex or extended engagements are quoted individually.
Research Design
from $1,500
For projects requiring analytical structuring, methodological clarification, or iterative conceptual development.
- Longer-term or multi-phase collaborations are scoped according to duration and depth of involvement.
Payment
Payment is made by invoice, either in agreed stages or upfront:
Payment in stages
For larger projects, the fee is usually split into two instalments:
– 50% to secure a place in the schedule
– 50% due before delivery of the completed work
Alternative payment plans can be arranged by agreement.
Full payment upfront
Smaller projects and project critiques are paid in full upfront.
I work with international clients. Payment can be made via international bank transfer or other agreed methods. Any bank transfer fees are the responsibility of the person commissioning the work.
Payment is made by invoice, either in agreed stages or upfront:
Payment in stages
For larger projects, the fee is usually split into two instalments:
– 50% to secure a place in the schedule
– 50% due before delivery of the completed work
Alternative payment plans can be arranged by agreement.
Full payment upfront
Smaller projects and project critiques are paid in full upfront.
I work with international clients. Payment can be made via international bank transfer or other agreed methods. Any bank transfer fees are the responsibility of the person commissioning the work.
Do you have any questions?
Do you have any questions?
Find answers below!
FAQs
Q1. How much will it cost?
Each project is priced individually.
Investment ranges are outlined on the Investment page. Final fees are agreed once scope is clarified.
If you ask for both developmental and line editing, we will work in two stages (developmental edit followed by focused line editing). It will be a combined package at a blended rate.
Investment ranges are outlined on the Investment page. Final fees are agreed once scope is clarified.
If you ask for both developmental and line editing, we will work in two stages (developmental edit followed by focused line editing). It will be a combined package at a blended rate.
Q2. How do your fees compare to industry standards?
Editorial fees vary widely depending on scope, complexity, and level of involvement.
For a general overview of typical editorial ranges, you may consult the Editorial Rate Estimator published by the Editorial Freelancers Association
For a general overview of typical editorial ranges, you may consult the Editorial Rate Estimator published by the Editorial Freelancers Association
Q3. What payment methods are available?
Payment can be made via international bank transfer or other agreed methods.
Fees are agreed in advance in the selected currency.
Please get in touch if you require other arrangements.
Fees are agreed in advance in the selected currency.
Please get in touch if you require other arrangements.
Q4. How long will the edit take?
We agree on the timeline based on the condition of the project, the type of editing required, and our schedules, but please use this as a guideline:
- Short pieces (up to 8,000 words): 1–2 weeks
- Mid-length projects: 3–4 weeks
- Book-length projects: 6–8 weeks
- Research projects and questionnaires: by agreement
- Project critiques: by agreement
Q5. I have a tight deadline. Do you offer speedy edits?
It will depend on my schedule at the time.
If my workload at the time permits it, I will try to find a way to accommodate your request. There will be a 'rush surcharge' of 30%.
If my workload at the time permits it, I will try to find a way to accommodate your request. There will be a 'rush surcharge' of 30%.
Q6. How can I submit my project?
After initial contact, I will share a secure upload link for your project.
Q7. How will I receive my edit?
Edits are typically delivered as tracked changes and comments in a Microsoft Word document, sent via a privacy-focused email provider.
Files may also be shared via secure download link (e.g., Proton Drive) or another agreed method.
All suggested changes remain visible, and you decide which to accept.
Each edit is accompanied by a complimentary report outlining project wide feedback.
Files may also be shared via secure download link (e.g., Proton Drive) or another agreed method.
All suggested changes remain visible, and you decide which to accept.
Each edit is accompanied by a complimentary report outlining project wide feedback.
Q8. What is the difference between developmental editing, line editing, copy editing, and proof reading?
They are different stages of project production.
Developmental editing
Helps shape the overall structure, argument, and focus of a project. It looks at the big picture—what the work is trying to say and how effectively it does so.
Line editing
Improves the flow at the sentence and paragraph level. It focuses on clarity, rhythm, tone, and how well the writing communicates.
Copyediting
Checks grammar, syntax, consistency, and accuracy. It ensures the text follows a clear style and reads cleanly.
Proofreading
The final polish. It catches remaining typos, minor errors, and formatting issues before publication.
I recommend that you do them in this order to avoid errors remaining in your project.
Developmental editing
Helps shape the overall structure, argument, and focus of a project. It looks at the big picture—what the work is trying to say and how effectively it does so.
Line editing
Improves the flow at the sentence and paragraph level. It focuses on clarity, rhythm, tone, and how well the writing communicates.
Copyediting
Checks grammar, syntax, consistency, and accuracy. It ensures the text follows a clear style and reads cleanly.
Proofreading
The final polish. It catches remaining typos, minor errors, and formatting issues before publication.
I recommend that you do them in this order to avoid errors remaining in your project.
Q9. Do you offer copy-editing and proofreading?
I do not provide stand-alone copy-editing or proofreading services.
My work focuses on developmental editing and project-level critique.
Upon agreement, I offer line editing as a package with developmental edit.
My work focuses on developmental editing and project-level critique.
Upon agreement, I offer line editing as a package with developmental edit.
10. Do you offer line editing?
Yes, I offer both, line editing and developmental editing as a combined package, but I do not offer line editing as a standalone service.
Developmental editing shapes the structure, clarity, and logic of your project, while line editing improves clarity, flow, and readability at the sentence and paragraph level.
In practice, these stages often inform each other. Some line-level adjustments may occur during developmental editing to support larger structural changes.
For projects requiring substantial revisions, we focus on developmental editing first, with line editing applied afterward as needed.
If you’d like both stages completed, they can be offered as a combined package at a blended rate.
Developmental editing shapes the structure, clarity, and logic of your project, while line editing improves clarity, flow, and readability at the sentence and paragraph level.
In practice, these stages often inform each other. Some line-level adjustments may occur during developmental editing to support larger structural changes.
For projects requiring substantial revisions, we focus on developmental editing first, with line editing applied afterward as needed.
If you’d like both stages completed, they can be offered as a combined package at a blended rate.
Q11. What is project critique?
Project critique is an early-stage evaluation of your idea before drafting begins.
Project critique takes place early, at the planning stage—before any developmental editing begins. It offers a structured assessment of your initial concept, identifying strengths, gaps, and potential directions before you commit to a full draft. You will receive a detailed report outlining these points (without in-text comments, which are part of developmental editing).
Project critique takes place early, at the planning stage—before any developmental editing begins. It offers a structured assessment of your initial concept, identifying strengths, gaps, and potential directions before you commit to a full draft. You will receive a detailed report outlining these points (without in-text comments, which are part of developmental editing).
Q12. Do you work with quantitative or statistical projects?
I do not work on projects based exclusively on quantitative or statistical analysis.
I work on qualitative and mixed-method projects where ethnographic data, interviews, textual material, life stories, or other qualitative data are central.
I work on qualitative and mixed-method projects where ethnographic data, interviews, textual material, life stories, or other qualitative data are central.
Q13. Do you use AI to provide your services?
All developmental feedback and editorial guidance I provide is based solely on my professional judgment. AI is used for research and administrative tasks.
While AI can improve grammar and surface style, it cannot truly understand complex arguments, long-form structure, or an author’s intended voice.
In my own experiments asking AI for editorial assessment, it failed to provide meaningful guidance, misinterpreting intent, missing structural issues, and flattening authorial voice.
AI also cannot judge when to follow convention or break it creatively—these are decisions that require human imagination and editorial insight.
While AI can improve grammar and surface style, it cannot truly understand complex arguments, long-form structure, or an author’s intended voice.
In my own experiments asking AI for editorial assessment, it failed to provide meaningful guidance, misinterpreting intent, missing structural issues, and flattening authorial voice.
AI also cannot judge when to follow convention or break it creatively—these are decisions that require human imagination and editorial insight.
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