How to Proofread

In this section we will deal with the physical act of proofreading, or how it is actually done in real life. Clearly, proofreading (like most desk-based skills) is no longer restricted to paper, and more and more of it is being done on-screen. But that does not mean that hard copy proofreading is a thing of the past. As long as there are books printed on paper, there will be proofreaders reading on paper, simply because the proof should be as close as possible to finished product.

In this section:

How to Proofread on Paper
Just like granny used to do (and a surprising number of non-grannies still do)

The Proofreading Symbols
The squiggles and strokes you’ll need to know

On-screen Proofreading
No more coffee-stained manuscripts. Is this the future?

The Psychology of Proofreading
You’ve learnt the mechanics – now get into the right frame of mind

Proofreading: Present and Future
How do spell checkers, digital distribution and cheap outsourcing affect us?

 

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