Proofreading FAQ
The following are answers to some commonly asked questions about proofreading.
What is proofreading?
Proofreading is the final read-through the text receives before it goes to press, gets posted online, or is handed in to your professor. In the publishing industry, a book at this stage is called a “galley proof” or “page proof.” Proofreaders typically check grammar, punctuation, spelling, capitalization, and spacing. They do not typically make substantive changes to the text.
What is copyediting?
Copyediting occurs earlier in the writing process than proofreading. In the publishing industry, a book at this stage is still in manuscript form–copyeditors correct the “copy” in the manuscript. Copyeditors typically check style, consistency, phrasing, and sometimes facts. They typically make substantive changes to the text.
Why hire a proofreader?
- Even the most talented and prolific writers make textual mistakes.
- Whether your project is a single-page resume or an entire novel, it is often very difficult to catch errors in your own writing.
- Text that contains typos, spelling errors, and incorrect grammar looks sloppy and unprofessional.
- No matter how long you spend writing, even the tiniest mistake in the text will be there forever.
- Projects that matter need to be perfect. Period.
How does this site work?
Once you have completed a final draft of your document, submit it to The Proofreading Girl either by uploading it, emailing it as a Microsoft Word or MS Word-compatible attachment, or by submitting a hard copy. You will then receive a price quote and turnaround estimate.
For more information on rates and turnaround time, please see Proofreading Rates.
My project requires that a specific style guide be used. What style guide does The Proofreading Girl use?
The Proofreading Girl will apply any standard style guide to your project that you specify. Standard styles guides are The Chicago Manual of Style, MLA, APA, and The Bluebook. Other style guides may be submitted to The Proofreading Girl by arrangement.
Will my work be protected?
Yes. The Proofreading Girl maintains the highest level of confidentiality and privacy. No part of your work will ever be shared with an outside party or posted anywhere on this site.
