A proofreader is a writer’s best friend. Proofreaders are tasked with finding and correcting typos and grammatical errors in a text.
Do you really need to hire a proofreader before publishing a text? 100%, which is why proofreading is an extremely sought-after profession.
What does proofreading actually involve?
Proofreading is a very delicate task carried out before the publication of a text. However, lots of authors are convinced that it is an unnecessary step.
The work of a proofreader is incredibly important and requires a lot of attention and extensive language skills. Proofreaders do a lot more than correct typos (many of which are now detected by automatic correctors), they also correct grammatical errors that can evade digital text correction systems. It is a job that requires a great deal of patience, precision and an excellent attention span.
Do you proofread a text before or after it has been edited?
Editing consists of revising a text from a lexical and stylistic point of view and involves making some fairly major corrections to a draft. This is also a very delicate task involving several skills that differ from those of a proofreader and as such, the position is usually better paid.
Given that the two tasks differ greatly, it is always a good idea to entrust editing and proofreading services to two different people.
How do you become a proofreader?
If you want to make a living out of proofreading, you’ll need to have excellent literary knowledge and good language and grammar skills. Most proofreaders work with texts in their native language but it is certainly possible to try your hand in a foreign language if you a fluent enough.
To become a proofreader, you need to enrol on a dedicated course or Master’s degree. These courses usually end with an exam, certifying your skill level.
To be a successful proofreader, you need to put together a portfolio to illustrate your work. That way, you can pitch yourself as a freelancer or potential employee to publishing houses or other companies in the publishing field. Of course, the longer you do the job, and the more projects you add to your portfolio, the higher your earnings will be.
