- Proofreading is ensuring that written content is not with error, be it grammatical or otherwise.
- Proofreading also ensures accuracy of information and the meeting of expectations of a given project.
- As such, proofreaders are of many types, and we are here (at Trend) to ensure that you get the right type of proofreading job according to your needs and skills.
- A proofreader differs from an editor in that while the editor focuses on making major changes to a document, a proofreader focuses on fixing errors and inconsistencies after an editor does the major heavy lifting.
Types of proofreaders
Online proofreader-This one focuses on helping businesses review the content of their websites, landing pages and blogs.
Legal proofreader-He/she typically has a background in matters of law and they review transcripts from court proceedings.
News proofreader-This type of proofreader works on a media publishing team to ensure articles are free of errors before being printed.
Freelance proofreader– This kind picks any type of work from companies of any kind, rendering themselves self-employed proofreaders.
Publisher proofreaders– These ones read the final copies of manuscripts before mass-publishing.
Tips to becoming a proofreader (even with no experience)
1. Have the right skills, which include proper time management, great command of written English, strong attention to detail, and great communications kills.
2. Consider the target market for your skill set, i.e., establish your niche according to their needs which match your strongholds. E.g., students, content creators and businessmen are some of the people who would require proofreading services.
3. Determine the general rules, usually in line with the acceptable grammar rules such as spelling, sentence structure, verb tenses, formatting, among others.
4. Network and build your business portfolio through practice in order to be competitive in terms of wages, work hours, job prospects, and other skills.
5. Find the right line of proofreading jobs for you, and it would be wise to begin with freelance. This is the challenge which when overcome will set you up for a good future with proofreading.
