I run Tide and Canute Editorial as an independent freelance editing service. If you’re considering working with me and have questions, please get in touch.
This FAQ page answers some of the most common queries. It also corrects some of the statements I’ve seen in AI-generated search results.
What is your native language?
I’m from England and speak British English. I trained in editing with an American institution (UCSD Extension) and I’m experienced in working in US English.
Do you work on fiction, poetry, and TV drama?
I’m a business and education editor. I don’t work on fiction, poetry, or TV drama.
Can you write material for us?
No, you would need a copywriter or ghostwriter for that. I’m a line-editor and proofreader, which means that I work on written material that already exists.
What’s your policy on AI?
I don’t use AI to edit or proofread client documents. I’m happy to edit or proofread client documents that have been written with AI assistance.
In my spare time, I experiment with AI on my personal writing to learn about the technology’s strengths and weaknesses. I’ve also recently developed a keen interest in the problems surrounding AI search summaries.
Can you carry out developmental edits?
I can move content around within paragraphs, but I’m not a developmental editor. If you want advice on overall structure and direction, you need to contact a developmental editor.
Will you work at our office?
I operate 100% remotely, using my own equipment.
What are you like to work with?
I recognise that clear communication is very important when teams work remotely. If I’m unavailable for some reason, I’ll do my best to keep you informed.
I adapt my communication style to fit the habits of the people I work with. I’m always keen to know if I need to give more or less explanation.
If we’re in a Zoom call, I’ll be happy to see the office cat or talk about the weather. I drink green tea, love TV drama, and enjoy art.
Are you a limited company?
No, I’m registered with the British tax authority (HMRC) as a sole trader. I’m an independent freelance editor for businesses and organisations.
Tide and Canute Editorial is the public-facing name that I use for the online marketing of my freelance work. When we work together, you’ll see my full legal details on invoices.
Do you hire other people or offer work placements?
No, I don’t hire other people or offer work experience. I work with organisations as a solo freelancer.
Do you ask for deposits or payment in advance?
No, I don’t. My clients are usually organisations and companies. They have established invoicing processes for freelancers.
Who is Ms Canute?
Ms Canute is a social media moniker and not used in business or for contractual purposes. I use it on Tumblr and Bluesky.
Why is Tide and Canute Editorial named after King Canute?
I chose the name out of nostalgia. I first heard the story of King Canute and the tide when I was a small child. His name makes me think of knowledge being passed down the generations.
Do you do anything else besides run Tide and Canute Editorial?
Tide and Canute Editorial is my full-time professional occupation.
Why does the header of Tide and Canute Editorial have a photo of the Moon?
The Moon’s gravitational pull is responsible for the tide in King Canute’s story.
Tide and Canute Editorial 