Proofreading

What does a proofreader do?

Once your text has been copyedited and formatted, a proofreader ensures consistency of all design elements, such as chapter headings and page numbers, and corrects any remaining inconsistencies and errors in grammar and mechanics. This is generally the last step prior to publication. Some books go through two rounds of proofreading, and occasionally a book may also go through a cold read—one final read-through to catch any lingering egregious errors.

Continuing with the landscape-maintenance analogy from the line editing and copyediting pages, the proofreader (or gardener) simply follows up on the work that’s already been done, ensuring all stray weeds have been pulled, edges are tidy, the yard is free of debris, and everything looks as you (the owner/author) have specified.