What’s the difference between copyediting and proofreading?

In traditional publishing, the two disciplines are well-defined steps to ensure the quality and accuracy of the published book. Copyediting takes place before design to check the sense and readability of the text, addressing issues such as grammar, syntax and word choice. It ensures that the content is clear and consistent in tone and style. Proofreading focuses on identifying any remaining errors, inconsistencies and layout problems, ensuring no mistakes have been missed or introduced during typesetting. Outside of book publishing, the lines are often more blurred, with clients sometimes requiring a ‘proof-edit’.

Which formats do you work in?

I prefer to work in Word for copyediting, with or without Track Changes as required. Proofreading of a designed document can be done on PDF using the commenting tools or BSI symbols, in InDesign or in your content management system.

How can I share large files with you?

Clients often use cloud-based services such as Microsoft Sharepoint, Google Drive, Dropbox or We Transfer if the files are too large to email or if collaboration on a shared file is required. I’m happy to use whatever service and workflow suits your organisation.

How long will the work take and how much will it cost?

It depends on the length, the level of edit required and the deadline. Please contact me, providing as much information as possible about word count and your requirements, for a quote.

Do you work with self-publishers?

I’m not currently accepting work from self-publishers. You could try searching the CIEP directory for another proofreader or editor.

Do you work in US English?

Yes, I’m happy to accept work in US or UK English. I’m familiar with and have a subscription to the Chicago Manual of Style for US clients. For those in the UK, I can follow New Hart’s Rules or your preferred style guide – or simply aim for consistency within the document.

How do I become a proofreader or copyeditor?

All aspiring proofreaders and copyeditors should undertake formal training, whatever their background. Contact the CIEP for more information or, if your organisation has a requirement for group training in editorial skills, please get in touch with me.

Isn’t proofreading just checking for spelling mistakes?

As my proofreading students soon find out, there’s a lot more to it than that! Proofreading is a highly skilled job requiring intense concentration and attention to detail, tactful communication and problem-solving skills – as well as top-notch reading comprehension and spelling ability.

FAQs

Answering your questions

What’s the difference between copyediting and proofreading?
In traditional publishing, the two disciplines are well-defined steps to ensure the quality and accuracy of the published book. Copyediting takes place before design to check the sense and readability of the text, addressing issues such as grammar, syntax and word choice. It ensures that the content is clear and consistent in tone and style. Proofreading focuses on identifying any remaining errors, inconsistencies and layout problems, ensuring no mistakes have been missed or introduced during typesetting. Outside of book publishing, the lines are often more blurred, with clients sometimes requiring a ‘proof-edit’.
Which formats do you work in?
I prefer to work in Word for copyediting, with or without Track Changes as required. Proofreading of a designed document can be done on PDF using the commenting tools or BSI symbols, in InDesign or in your content management system.
How can I share large files with you?
Clients often use cloud-based services such as Microsoft Sharepoint, Google Drive, Dropbox or We Transfer if the files are too large to email or if collaboration on a shared file is required. I’m happy to use whatever service and workflow suits your organisation.
How long will the work take and how much will it cost?
It depends on the length, the level of edit required and the deadline. Please contact me, providing as much information as possible about word count and your requirements, for a quote.
Do you work with self-publishers?
I’m not currently accepting work from self-publishers. You could try searching the CIEP directory for another proofreader or editor.
Do you work in US English?
Yes, I’m happy to accept work in US or UK English. I’m familiar with and have a subscription to the Chicago Manual of Style for US clients. For those in the UK, I can follow New Hart’s Rules or your preferred style guide – or simply aim for consistency within the document.
How do I become a proofreader or copyeditor?
All aspiring proofreaders and copyeditors should undertake formal training, whatever their background. Contact the CIEP for more information or, if your organisation has a requirement for group training in editorial skills, please get in touch with me.
Isn’t proofreading just checking for spelling mistakes?
As my proofreading students soon find out, there’s a lot more to it than that! Proofreading is a highly skilled job requiring intense concentration and attention to detail, tactful communication and problem-solving skills – as well as top-notch reading comprehension and spelling ability.