• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

How Write-Aid Works

In order to maximize efficiency and minimize cost, Write-Aid projects are handled primarily through e-mail, with an occasional brief telephone conversation.

A typical Write-Aid job proceeds like this:

1. Client Inquiry – The client brings a project to Write-Aid for conversion into optimal English.
2. Project Assessment – The client fully describes the project to Write-Aid, including the intention of the project, the target audience, the size, the tone of communication, and the desired timeline for completion. A reference questionnaire is provided to help you describe your project (see Getting Started). If at all possible, the actual document to be converted will be submitted as an attachment. The ideal format for submission is a Microsoft Word document. However if the project involves the conversion of existing printed material (such as a brochure or menu), a pdf file of the piece can be sent. In the case of larger works such as a book manuscript which may not be fully completed, a portion of the text should be sent along with an outline of the full project.
3. Time and Cost Estimate – Once Write-Aid has reviewed the project, a detailed estimate will be submitted to the client, including the cost, conversion timeline, and payment terms. (See What It Costs for more information about pricing).
4. Estimate Approval – The client approves the estimate and a Start-Up Call is scheduled.
5. Start-Up Call – The client and Write-Aid have a brief telephone conversation (approximately 15 minutes) to discuss the project. This step is one of the most important for helping us capture the essence of the author’s unique “voice,” energy, and intention in the final product. During this call the client will also make arrangements with Write-Aid for an initial, non-refundable deposit before work begins (See What It Costs for more information).
6. Copy Conversion – Write-Aid converts the text into optimal English. Write-Aid will correct spelling, grammatical, and syntactical errors as well as find suitable substitutes for idiomatic phrases that lose their impact in translation. The converted text will be prepared in a Microsoft Word document. Write-Aid will note places in the text where there are questions for the client about preferred meaning or intention. At times, alternate versions of some text will be prepared for the client to consider. A DRAFT of the converted text will be sent to the client as a Microsoft Word document.
7. Client Comments – The client reviews the DRAFT, making comments and specifying preferences. These client comments should be done in the same Microsoft Word document, saving the changes.
8. Final Adjustments and Delivery – Write-Aid amends the document, based on the client comments and preferences. A FINAL version of the converted text is sent to the client and final payment is made. NOTE: if additional changes are desired by the client, an addendum to the estimate will be prepared to cover additional costs.