Proofreading

Anyone who writes will know just how hard it is to spot errors such as spelling mistakes, typos, and missing or repeated words and spaces in their own work. But removing these distractions is important if you want to make the right impression on your clients, colleagues or readers. Error-riddled text implies a less-than-professional business, researcher or writer.

My proofreading service will check your documents for spelling errors, typos, extra or missing spaces, missing or incorrect page numbers or headers, missing or inappropriate words, correct grammar and punctuation usage, cross-check references, and check for overall clarity and consistency of style.

Errors are marked on the proof using a set of standard symbols - I use the British Standard, unless advised otherwise. For clients unfamiliar with these symbols, a copy will be included with your corrected proofs or a less formal method used.

Proofreading is not editing, and I will not rewrite sections, change words (unless they are incorrect) or the author's style of writing/punctuation. If necessary I will query unclear sections or factual errors with you.

This service gives your text the professional finish, catching author and typesetter errors before publication or bulk printing. I can also proofread website text.

I am happy to complete a test piece for publishers.

Proofreading is usually more effective on a hard copy printout of your document. I will accept Microsoft Word or Adobe pdf documents by email (please virus check all documents before sending them).

If it is preferable I can proofread your document on-screen and mark up corrections using either Adobe Acrobat editing or Microsoft Word 'Track Changes'. Generally, though, I will work on a printout, and return it to you by post or courier (any printing charges, if applicable, will be included in your quote).