Proofreading

is defined as correcting mistakes to ensure that there are no errors that could detract from the published work, and that the work looks polished and professional. It is usually the final step before publication, and after all other levels of editing have been completed.

This includes checking and correcting:

• Punctuation
• Grammar
• Spelling - (following whichever convention is decided on).
• Capitalisation
• ​Layout of headings, paragraphs and illustrations​ – We format headings and paragraphs using Word styles and check that images support the text, with clear captions.
• Overall consistency throughout the document of fonts, page numbers, headings, line spacing, and numbers relating to references, contents and diagram lists, etc.
• Typographical errors

Proofreading does not include copy-editing (unless a sentence is grammatically incorrect, it will not be changed for style reasons).
If extensive changes are needed, we will first discuss the situation with you.
Proofreading also does not include indexing, page layout/design, seeking permissions. All work, unless agreed otherwise, is to the standard of the Collins Dictionary and the agreed Style Guide.

What is a Style Guide?

The copy-editing and proofreading will primarily be carried out by using Track Changes and Comments within a Word document, or the Comments function in PDF documents.

The normal rate for proofreading is $0.03 per word.