Personal and professional (and admittedly pedantic) thesis editing service
I am the creator of this website, a former high school language teacher, and an academic with a background in education and applied linguistics, which gives me a great love for and understanding of language. I am also very familiar with issues around thesis writing and academic writing in the English as a Second Language context. I have published studies on a number of related challenges faced by doctoral researchers, including how to develop a doctoral thesis that includes publications, thesis policy expectations, and thesis examination.
Depending on your needs and my current workload, I may be available to edit your thesis. Before sending an enquiry, please read through the information on this page.
-Shannon Mason (BEd, MA(AppLing), PhD) ResearchGate | LinkedIn
⚠️ Read some Testimonials from doctoral researchers!
Should/Can I use a thesis editor?
Most universities allow postgraduate students to use a thesis editor, and some even provide funding for this purpose. Many students use a professional thesis editor to provide a final pair of eyes to look over their thesis, but it is a decision that needs to be made carefully. Before making a decision, make sure to:
- check your university guidelines regarding the engagement of professional editors,
- discuss this with your supervisor, and
- check any national guidelines, such as the Guidelines for Editing research Theses from the Institute of Professional Editors in Australia.
What can a thesis editor do (and not do)?
It is important to note that the term ‘editing’ can have different meanings, and where research theses and dissertations are concerned, there are specific ethical restrictions about what corrections or feedback can and can’t be given by professional editors. This is to maintain the integrity of the doctoral researcher’s own work.
A thesis editor may provide feedback on the following (unless not permitted by your university):
- accuracy of grammar, spelling, and punctuation
- clarity and appropriateness of expressions
- consistency in use of terminology, numbers/numerals, abbreviations, capitalisation, etc.
- consistency of text formatting and thesis layout
- consistency in presentation of tables, figures, and other visual items
- adherence of references to the specified referencing style
- checking of external links and bookmarks to other parts of the thesis
- cross-checking of reference list and in-text citations
A thesis editor CAN NOT
- make corrections to the content, substance, or structure of the thesis
- comment on the accuracy of any methods, results, facts, or claims
- follow up on referenced materials
- identify plagiarism
- guarantee an error-free thesis
- guarantee conferral of degree
How much will it cost?
Professional editing of doctoral and master’s theses takes time and skill. You should be wary of services that promise a quick turnaround for a cheap price. Check the credentials of the editor, and their experience in academic writing and editing. Also make sure they are aware of the ethics around the examination of research theses.
My fees ($AU) vary depending on the size and nature of the thesis, the level of editing required, and the requested turnaround time. Please note that all my editing is conducted manually, and I do not rely on any AI tools.
Can you edit my thesis?
To start discussions and determine if I will be the right editor for your thesis, please send a message using the form below, including as much detail as possible, such as the title and topic of your thesis, length of your thesis, expected start and end date for editing, your budget, etc. If possible, please provide a link to the relevant guidelines from your university concerning thesis formatting requirements, and/or the use of professional editors.
Thesis By Publication 