Proofreading

Final correction of spelling, grammar, syntax, and typographic or formatting errors

Proofreading is what many people think of when they think of editing: correction of typos and errors. This final level of hands-on editing is conducted after a manuscript is in layout (usually as a PDF, unless the manuscript is going straight to e-book), which is whence the name derives—the proofreader checks the manuscript “proof” to make sure everything is correct.

Since proofreading is typically performed on a PDF, the changes are not actually implemented by the proofreader, but they are pointed out and specified using comment balloons, and are then implemented by the interior layout designer.

A proofread will do the following:

  • correct any errors missed in copy editing
  • correct errors introduced during author revision after copy editing
  • correct errors introduced by the interior designer during layout
  • address “widows” and “orphans” and other artifacts of file conversion
  • ensure that the Dedication, Acknowledgments, About the Author, etc. sections are correct (front and back matter are sometimes not present during copy editing, so extra attention is given to them in proofreading)
  • review the Table of Contents and Index (if present) for format, correctness, and accuracy of page numbers

Due to the wide range of circumstances for which proofreading may be required, we are pleased to offer single- or multiple-pass proofreading and to customize our approach based on the author’s objective. A single-pass proofread is our budget option and will catch the vast majority of errors. It’s generally all that’s needed to ready a manuscript for submission to agents or publishers and for publication of advance reader copies.

A multiple-pass proofread involves several passes from one or more proofreaders and is the best option for authors who want to ensure their work has been brought to the standards of traditional trade publication with regard to error correction.

Standard rate of $.01 per word, subject to adjustment as appropriate based on the following:

  • The scope and depth of editing required
  • The number of images and other graphic elements whose content, positioning, and captioning need review
  • The number of passes requested
  • If attention to layout and formatting considerations is required (such as autocorrect options like smart quotes, smart ellipses, industry-standard spacing, and region-specific punctuation)
  • If the proofreader will be working with an editable document or making a list of edits to be executed by a third party, such as a typesetter or layout/designer
  • If the manuscript has been professionally line edited and/or copyedited prior to final proofing

Varies based on length of material to be proofread, but usually no more than 4 weeks.

To request a quote, make a submission, or request more information

Please visit our online welcome center, email us at admin@editorialdepartment.com, or call us at (520) 546-9992.

What happens next?

All inquiries to The Editorial Department will be personally fielded by author services director Ross Browne, who will do the following:

  • confirm receipt of your materials
  • gather any further information needed
  • do a no-cost/no-obligation preliminary review, to get a feel for which editor(s) and service(s) best fit your project’s needs
  • provide a written quote with price and turnaround time for any recommended services
  • answer any questions about recommended options or possible alternatives
  • schedule your project with the assigned editor, if you decide to move forward
  • explain and finalize the appropriate billing arrangements
  • provide a firm delivery date and keep you updated on our progress, as appropriate
  • deliver your feedback or editing to you once it’s ready
  • arrange for follow up with your editor by phone or email, once you have reviewed your feedback and/or editing
  • advise on next steps, and schedule reviews of new drafts if requested

Privacy & Confidentiality

We have utmost respect for our clients’ privacy concerns and will never sell, share, or disseminate your contact information. We will treat all materials supplied to us as confidential.

Formal nondisclosure agreements are not required but are available on request. More info is available here.

“Don’t tell me the moon is shining, show me the glint of light on broken glass.”

Bernard Cornwell