Proofreading

By: Mr.Jack

Proofreading is the last and ultimate step of any editing process.

Proofreading focuses on external errors, such as spelling mistakes, grammar and punctuation errors, etc.

What is proofread?

What is proofreading for?

The proofreader’s tools

Dictionary

Thesaurus (Aton&Synon Dict)

Staff style sheet (Previous Ss’ mistakes on the sheet)

Grammar book

Telephone book

Red pen

Lack of fear

How to use proofreading marks

Read the copy all the way through to see if it makes sense.

Read carefully for correct facts, logical order and holes in the story.

If a question comes to mind, make a note and encourage the writer to fill the information gap.

How to use proofreading marks continued…

Read the copy a second time for correct spelling and grammar, analyzing it word-by-word.

Use standard proofreading marks (see bulletin board)

Proofreading Tips double check for errors you typically make

read out loud, read slowly, read one word at a time to determine if it makes sense

look for formatting and alignment errors

read what is actually on the page and not what you think

proof before printing

Errors missed by Spell/Grammar Check names and addresses

not in computer’s dictionary

homonyms that are not misspelled but misused (i.e., they’re/their/there)

numbers only verified by checking original copy

repeated words and omitted words

formatting errors punctuation or capitalization errors

such as incorrect paragraph indentions or spacing between lines and words

Common Proofreading Symbols

Common Proofreading Abbreviations

Common Proofreading Abbreviations

Common Proofreading Abbreviations

Additional Resources LR Communication

Systems, Inc—Proofreading and Editing Tips

Daily Writing Tips—8 Proofreading Tips and Techniques