Proofreaders are trained to find errors in written copy by comparing it to the original or reading it alone. They use reference books and style guides to ensure accuracy and can work from home.
For many people, spelling, punctuation, and grammar are a source of constant irritation. How many times have you written a college essay or business letter only to find embarrassing mistakes that the spell checker missed? Spell checking on a computer is very useful, but it won’t be able to catch every spelling or grammar error. This is where having your own team of proofreaders can come in very handy.
Proofreaders are trained to spot grammar, punctuation or spelling errors in written copy by quickly scanning the page. Proofreaders usually do their job in one of two ways. One way is to compare the test documents with the original copy and mark any differences found. Sometimes they have a person read the original aloud while they compare the proofs.
Proofreaders also read copy by itself with nothing to compare it to, noting errors they find on the written page. Trained proofreaders mark these errors with marks on the page. These marks are standard marks used by proofreaders, but may also be understood by printers and writers.
Most proofreaders also have their own set of reference books that they use when checking for errors. They refer to dictionaries to check for unfamiliar or unusual words. They also use reference books that explain the wide range of correct grammatical usages. These are very useful when the proofreader has only the original copy to work from.
If a proofreader works for a particular company or client, they may need to check that copy is written according to the client’s standard guidelines. The company usually has a style guide that is specific only to their company. Proofreaders check writer’s copy to make sure it is written strictly according to these guidelines. If not, the proofreader can contact the writer and ask questions regarding style inconsistencies. Errors will then be flagged and sent back for correction.
With the advent of the Internet and telecommuting, the flexibility that proofreading offers has become attractive to many people. People can train as proofreaders in college, or through one of the many evening classes and Internet courses available on the subject. Once you complete your training, proofreading is a job that can be done in a traditional work environment or just as easily from home. Many large and small companies outsource this type of work to trained people. It’s an ideal job for stay-at-home parents or anyone looking to make a little extra cash with little overhead.
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