Proofreading is the final check of a document or copy, before it is submitted for publication.

The document will be checked for errors in spelling/typing, punctuation, grammar and presentation. It is basically a final check of your document in order to ensure that none of those annoying little mistakes have crept through.

What is Copy-Editing?

Copy-editing is the process of preparing an already drafted copy for publication.

Copy-Editors will check for consistency of style and presentation, clarity or ambiguity, punctuation/spelling, grammar and flow of language used.

Every piece of literature that your target audience sees needs to be perfect. The costs for accurate proofreading and editing in the preparation stages will always outweigh the potential costs for rectifying errors after publication. Do not risk ruining your credibility with incorrectly spelt words or seemingly minor grammatical errors, when they can so easily be prevented. Get your document checked professionally and be confident in the knowledge that the text you present is perfect.

The correct use of English is essential to the credibility of any written work. Appearance is important and novels, dissertations, CVs, business proposals and web sites all benefit greatly from clear, concise content which is presented correctly.

Why have Documents checked by a Professional?

There are several reasons why it is best to have your documents checked by a professional Proofreader:

~ Work that is consistant and accurate, grammatically correct and free of spelling mistakes, looks professional. It creates the right impression and this is important for anyone who wants their work to be taken seriously. Errors look unprofessional and can destroy your credibility, make your work look unreliable or deter a prospective publisher.

~ Many people use word processing software, where it is extremely easy to press the wrong key, especially when you are on a roll and need to get your ideas down quickly. More commonly, word processors automatically make incorrect corrections.

~ You may not be very confident about spelling. The spell-checker installed on most software can be used to check your spelling mistakes and grammar, but it doesn't know what word you mean to use. For example, you may have typed 'weather' when you meant to use 'whether'. The spell-checker will not correct it because, although it may not make sense and it is not the correct word, it is spelt perfectly.

~ Grammar and punctuation may be a weak point. A badly phrased or punctuated sentance can change the meaning of a sentance. The grammar-checking software on your computer could be used, but sometimes it can make some very odd suggestions.

~ Consistency is important. If you are writing fiction, the names of your characters must be spelt the same throughout the book. Some names can be spelt in more than one way, for example, 'Ann' or 'Anne'. Whichever way you choose, it must be the same throughout your script. Number writing should always be consistent.

~ Keep your costs down. Making changes to printing plates is very expensive, and you may be charged additional costs if you ask a printer to change things after a plate is made. Therefore, it is important to ensure that your literature is free from mistakes before printers receive it. In some cases, your script may have been typeset word-for-word (English may not be the typesetter's first language). Any spelling or grammatical mistakes in your script will be repeated in the final print.

Of course, you can check your own documents, but it is very easy to overlook errors and inconsistencies in your own work. After all, you know what you mean to communicate. Asking a professional to check your work makes sense, as they will be looking at it with an objective and independent view.