1. Contextual spelling checking
Correctly spelled words used in the wrong context mean embarrassing mistakes for
you. The editor-proofreader spots erroneous use of lose/loose, affect/effect, lie/lay,
there/their/they’re, and many other commonly confused words.
Vocabulary enhancement
Words can make an impact, or they can fall flat. Enhance your sentences with
context-optimised word choice suggestions to instantly improve the readability
of your document.
250 points of grammar
Scanning your text for proper use of more than 250 advanced grammar rules,
spanning everything from subject-verb agreement to article use to modifier
placement.
Proofreaders need to be:
 scrupulous about detailed work
 skilled in written English
 self-motivated
 good at concentrating for long spells
 good communicators
 comfortable working with IT
They may be asked to check material for:
 books of all kinds
 magazines and newspapers
 business publications
 website pages
 specialist publications, eg academic journals or technical manuals..
Publishers, graphic design houses and printers employ proofreaders on a full-time and freelance
basis. Other potential employers or clients include any organisations that produce a lot of published
materials, from retail chains to government bodies.
There are no set formal qualifications. Proofreading experience is important. However, many
employers also expect A levels/H grades in English and other subjects. Some proofreaders have a
degree in English or another subject.
Proofreaders in employment train on the job. Freelance proofreaders need to fund their own training.
The Society for Editors and Proofreaders and the Publishing Training Centre offer a range of courses
on proofreading and related subjects.
Proofreaders advance by earning a reputation in the industry. They may move on to specialise in a
particular field of publishing. Some train in related skills such as copy-editing.
They may be asked to check material for:

2.  books of all kinds
 magazines and newspapers
 business publications
 website pages
 specialist publications, eg academic journals or technical manuals.
Proofreaders usually check a 'page proof' - a printer's image of the designed pages. They may also
check draft web pages or pdf (portable document format) files.
Sometimes they compare the page proofs closely with the edited text. Alternatively, they may
proofread 'blind', without reading against the original.
The proofreader generally checks to ensure that:
 the text matches the original
 page numbers and headings are correct
 spelling and other aspects, such as use of capital letters, are consistent
 chapter headings match the contents table
 photos and illustrations are correctly captioned
 the pages as a whole are logically arranged and look pleasing.
When they identify a change that needs to be made, proofreaders mark it, using a recognised set of
symbols. They usually mark the printed proofs, but sometimes this task may be done on screen, using
specialised software.
Proof changes can be costly, so proofreaders must use their judgement to decide which changes are
essential.
Most proofreaders are self-employed and work from home. The flow of work is likely to be uneven, so
hours may be irregular. Part-time work is common in this field.
Skills and personal qualities
Proofreaders must have:
 a scrupulous approach to detailed work
 a high level of skill in written English, including spelling, grammar and punctuation
 the motivation to work on their own, and to meet deadlines
 an ability to stay focused throughout an entire document, which may be long and technical
 good judgement, to gauge which changes are necessary
 familiarity with the production process for books and documents
 tact
 an ability to work within the style of the author and publisher, rather than impose their own
ideas
 good interpersonal skills, to build working relationships and contacts with potential clients
 confidence with computers.
 Personal Qualities