David Kaplan

A passionate reader, writer, and independent researcher, I have well over a decade’s experience as a professional editor and proofreader. In this time, I’ve edited and proofread a vast array of materials, including books (fiction, non-fiction, and children’s), over 100 research papers (from proposals to PhDs), corporate and government documents, educational content, and training materials for schools, NGOs, and government departments. I’ve also had the privilege of working as a freelance proofreader for Penguin Books South Africa when starting out in this field.

My expertise includes a strong command of – and love for – the English language, meticulous attention to detail, a keen eye for punctuation, grammar, and consistency, and generally going the extra mile to ensure the best version possible of everything that comes my way. I excel at improving flow and tightening language without altering the author’s voice, and I offer developmental editing to provide clarity and context where needed (whether in terms of books, corporate reports, government documents, academic papers, etc.), including brutal honesty when it comes to potential improvement. I am adept at managing multiple projects simultaneously while ensuring the highest standards of quality and client satisfaction at all times.

Finally, I am open, approachable, always eager to learn, and constantly strive for continuous improvement in my work.

Xenia S Kyriacou

I have a background in Ecology, Science Education, Environmental Education, and Evolution Education, with expertise in academic writing and publishing. I currently freelance for the University of Johannesburg, North-West University, and the University of KwaZulu-Natal, working on research projects, academic writing, editing, post-graduate student mentoring, and website content creation.

Since 2016, I have provided freelance research, academic editing, and mentoring services, with a particular focus on Science education. My student mentoring spans language editing, structural guidance, and more intensive support on methodological choices, theory interpretation, and data analysis. I have also contributed to various projects for the University of Johannesburg, including textbook analyses on the Nature of Science, educational scriptwriting for student teachers, and summarising journal articles for a knowledge website based on the Harvard model.

I also have experience in the writing of science scripts for the Learning Channel, as well as authoring, editing and project management for various Agricultural Sciences, Natural Sciences and Technology titles for Macmillan and Via Afrika school and college textbook publishers. Moreover, I am well versed when it comes to journal editing and proofreading, and have also authored or co-authored several journal articles over the years.