Is scope creep your biggest time suck?

And see "scope creep examples"

Author

Diana Kelly Levey
March 12, 2025

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Ever found yourself doing way more work than you agreed to without extra pay?

Sometimes it’s scope creep, other times, it’s part of the editing process.

Learn what “scope creep” means and how it can eat into a freelancer’s profits. (One annoying ask at a time. )

What Is Scope Creep?

Scope creep happens when clients request work beyond your original agreement without adjusting compensation. This sneaky situation reduces your freelance hourly rate and can leave you feeling frustrated.

Your time is valuable, and protecting it requires clear boundaries.

Common Scope Creep Scenarios

1. The Word Count Creep

Your client assigns a 600-word article but later asks you to "just add a few sections" without offering additional payment.

Solution: Respond professionally with something like, "I'd be happy to add another 200-300 words to strengthen the article for an additional fee, as our original agreement was for 600 words."

2. The Interview Expansion

You agreed to interview two sources, but after submission, the client wants quotes from two more experts.

Solution: Clearly outline interview expectations in your initial contract, and don't hesitate to request appropriate compensation (see above) when additional interviews significantly increase your workload. (Going back to the original interviewers to clarify some points and quotes doesn’t count as scope creep.)

3. The Endless Edit Cycle

What started as "one round of revisions" somehow becomes five rounds with feedback from people not mentioned in your agreement.

Solution: Specify the number of revision rounds in your contract and identify who has final approval authority before you begin the project.

I have a few more examples of scope creep and explain more situations where I found myself dealing with this in my freelance career in this blog. Check it out below.

Thanks for being a reader.

Diana

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