Doctor Edit is the trading name of Dr Paul Vincent, an internationally respected editor, proofreader and writer.
With 20 years’ experience as an academic editor and proofreader, Dr Paul Vincent can maximise the potential of your writing, whatever the subject.
Being able to tailor my services to your precise needs is something I pride myself on.
My wide-ranging work in publishing over two decades has required me to assimilate the styles and vocabularies of numerous subjects. I have an eye for detail and a sound knowledge of what makes good content.
A world-renowned academic editor and proofreader
I have copyedited or proofread around 200 academic books for leading US and UK publishers like Harvard University Press and Routledge. I also have extensive experience editing and proofing journal articles in fields ranging from engineering to machine translation.
Since 2012, for example, I have provided academic proofreading and editing services to the University of Auckland in a range of capacities. I have copyedited and proofread articles for the peer-reviewed Indigenous journals AlterNative and MAI Journal, for over a decade. These are published by Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga, New Zealand’s Māori Centre of Research Excellence. I have also copyedited issues of the New Zealand Sociology journal.
Since 2008, I have proofed roughly 200 theses (PhDs, master’s, honours, etc.) and research reports. I’ve also supplied academic proofreading and editing services to faculty based in Australasia, Europe, North America and Asia. I have been able to assist many of them in getting their articles published in prestigious journals.
Doctor Edit writes too!
As a writer, I have published internationally on Shakespeare, food and nutrition, marketing and branding, language learning, law, and contemporary literature.
Early in my career I was Managing Editor of two food industry journals, New Nutrition Business and Kids Nutrition Report (published by New Nutrition Business).
During that time, I became an internationally respected food writer and editor. The position required me to research, write, edit, proof and commission articles on the international business of food and health.
This involved interviewing representatives from some of the biggest food companies in the world. The role included presenting at Natural Products Expo West, the leading trade show in the natural, organic, and healthy lifestyle industry, held in Anaheim, California.
I am also the author of children’s favourite Boswell Bunny and the Magic Carrot.
Here’s a FAQ covering the questions I’m most commonly asked
1. What’s the difference between editing and proofreading?
Editing involves improving the overall clarity, flow, tone and structure of a document. It can include rewriting awkward sentences, enhancing word choice, and ensuring consistency throughout. Proofreading is the final step in the process. It focuses on catching surface-level errors like spelling, punctuation, grammar, and formatting issues.
2. What types of documents do you work on?
I work on a wide range of documents including academic papers, manuscripts, business content, résumés, websites, marketing materials, fiction, and more. If it’s written and needs to be polished, I can help.
3. How do you track the changes you make?
I use Track Changes in Microsoft Word, so you can clearly see all edits and suggestions. I also leave comments where needed to explain decisions or ask for clarification.
4. Will you rewrite or ghostwrite my content?
If you’re looking for light rewriting or help improving sentence structure, that’s part of editing. However, full ghostwriting or content creation falls outside the scope of editing and would need to be quoted separately.
5. Do you follow a specific style guide?
I can edit according to popular style guides such as APA, Chicago Manual of Style and MLA, depending on your needs. If your organisation or publication has a custom style guide, I’m happy to follow that too. If none exists, I can work with you to create a bespoke style guide.
6. How long will it take to edit or proofread my document?
Turnaround depends on word count, complexity, and the level of editing required. I’ll always provide a clear timeline before starting, and I do my best to accommodate tight deadlines when possible.
7. How do you determine your rates?
Rates are typically based on word count, service level (e.g., editing vs proofreading), and turnaround time. I offer custom quotes after reviewing a sample of your work to ensure fairness and accuracy.
8. Will my work remain confidential?
Absolutely. I treat all documents as confidential and am happy to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) upon request. Your work will never be shared or discussed without your permission.
9. Can you provide a sample edit?
Yes, I’m happy to provide a free sample edit (usually 250–500 words) so you can see my editing style and ensure it’s a good fit for your needs.
10. What software or tools do you use?
I primarily use Microsoft Word for editing, but I can also work with Google Docs and PDFs (for proofreading). However, human insight always leads the process.
11. Do you offer rush or weekend services?
Yes, I do offer expedited editing services for an additional fee. Please let me know your timeline upfront so I can prioritise accordingly.
12. What if I don’t agree with some of your edits?
That’s totally OK! Editing is a collaborative process. I’m always happy to explain my suggestions and work with you to align the final version with your voice and intentions.
I’m dedicated to working closely with you to realise your verbal vision, whatever it might be.
