Text reading 'Machine Translation Post-Editing' in a stylized brown cursive font on a white background.

Improving machine-translated English

Machine or AI translation can be useful, particularly for large volumes of text or when you need information quickly. However, the English it produces often needs human input before it’s fit for use. That’s where machine translation post-editing (MTPE) comes in.

I refine machine-translated Dutch-to-English text to produce clear, readable English that works for its intended audience. This may involve anything from a light clean-up to a comprehensive edit that results in text indistinguishable from a human translation.

At the bottom of this page, you’ll find an explanation of the different levels of post-editing and guidance on when each is appropriate.

When does MTPE work well?

  • high-volume product descriptions

  • manuals, guides, FAQs

  • internal reports or documentation

  • draft content that will be developed further

  • time-sensitive projects

When is MTPE not the right choice?

Post-editing is not always faster than translation: full post-editing can take as much effort as – and sometimes even more than – translating the text from scratch. It very much depends on the text and the quality of the machine or AI generated output.

My priority is always to ensure your text is as good as it should be, so I’ll be honest if MTPE isn’t the best option. MTPE is usually not suitable for:

  • creative or literary texts

  • persuasive marketing copy

  • tone-sensitive brand messaging

  • humorous or emotionally nuanced writing

  • any text where nuance is critical

In these cases, full human translation delivers better results and a better return on investment.

Why work with me?

Native-level English expertise
Machine output often sounds “almost right”. I address the issues machines miss, such as awkward phrasing, unnatural word choices and tonal mismatches.

Cultural and linguistic insight
Dutch texts are rich in idioms, cultural references and false friends. I ensure these are handled appropriately so meaning and intent aren’t lost.

Broad professional training
With proofreading qualifications from the CIEP and the Publishing Training Centre, a degree in English and a copywriting diploma, I can assess not just correctness, but clarity, effectiveness and impact to deliver polished, publication-ready English.

Recognised professionalism
I’m a Full Member of the Chartered Institute of Linguists and a ProZ.com Certified PRO, working in line with recognised industry standards.

Transparency
I only take on projects I know I can deliver to a high standard. If MTPE isn’t the right fit for your text, I’ll tell you upfront.

Reliability
I’m flexible, approachable and meticulous about deadlines – qualities my clients value.

What does post-editing cost?

Visit my rates page for more details, or send me a message (via email or by filling in the contact form).

If you’re unsure whether MTPE is suitable for your text, you’re welcome to send a short sample by email or via the contact form. I’m happy to take a quick look and advise whether post-editing or full human translation would be the better option.

Levels of post-editing

I offer three levels of post-editing to suit different needs. These edits can also be applied to Dutch-to-English translations written by non-native speakers of English. The goal is always the same: to make the English clear, coherent and fit for purpose.

Light post-edit – Minimal intervention to ensure the text is comprehensible. Best suited for internal or short-lived content. Typically only needed for machine-translated text rather than output from LLMs.

  • Fixes major spelling, grammar and punctuation errors

  • Ensures everything is translated and removes obvious mistranslations

  • Does not include stylistic improvements or terminology consistency checks

Standard post-edit – A more polished version for short-term or external content. Usually recommended for machine translation, but LLM output will often also benefit from a standard post-edit. Includes all the checks in a light post-edit, plus:

  • Fixes major and minor spelling, grammar and punctuation errors

  • Makes minor stylistic changes to improve readability

  • Ensures key terminology is used correctly (if a glossary is provided)

Full post-edit – A high-quality, human-like translation. Recommended for LLM-generated content and any text intended for long-term use. Includes all the checks in a light and standard post-edit, plus:

  • Refines structure, tone, flow and localisation

  • Rewrites sections for clarity and natural style

  • Ensures consistency and accuracy across the text

  • Includes a full manual check for spelling and grammar

Note: Although I work carefully and perform multiple checks, post-editing does not include a full proofread. If the text is for external or long-term use, I strongly recommend having it checked by someone else before publication. Even with this additional step, post-editing is often more cost-effective than a full human translation. For pricing details, see the editing rates page.

Ready for the next step?

Want to discuss your text or project? Get in touch via email or by filling in the contact form.

See the rates page for information to find out what post-editing machine translation costs. Prices start at just €0.01 per word!