Key topics
Examine the qualities that make a good proofreader. Explore the process of proofreading and learn how the role of the professional proofreader relates to other roles, such as that of the copy-editor or sub-editor. Discover how the role of the professional proofreader fits into the print production process as a whole. Study comparison proofreading and direct proofreading, as well as partner proofreading.
Learn the common proof-correction marks and explore the differences between these and copy-editing (or subbing) marks.
Learn the remaining proof-correction marks. Examine old symbols that are still used by some people in the publishing and printing industries and so may be encountered by a proofreader. Discover how to keep correction costs down.
Acquire a high standard of spelling and grammar. Examine words that can be spelt in more than one way. Learn how American spellings differ from British spellings.
- Capitals and House Styles
Learn when to use capital letters and explore their use in trade names and headings. Examine style sheets and discover how to adhere to a house style. Consider when and how to create your own style sheet.
Explore typefaces and layout and learn how to check that the typesetting instructions have been carried out correctly and that the layout of the pages is consistent. Discover proofreaders’ responsibilities in relation to illustrations and captions. Learn about editing on-screen and consider its advantages and disadvantages.
- The Professional Approach
Explore job opportunities for proofreaders and examine other related careers, such as copy-editing or sub-editing. Learn proper professional practice.
Learn what reference materials all proofreaders require, and consider what materials are needed by proofreaders working in specialist fields. This unit also contains an extensive glossary of technical terms and a quick reference chart of proof-correction marks.
- The World of the Freelance
Learn how to set yourself up to work from home and how to run a successful freelance business. Consider various advantages and disadvantages of working freelance. Gain the skills to market yourself and to control financial matters.
Course Code
D20