Proofreader
What is the work like?
Proofreaders check written text after it has been edited and before it is printed or published, providing a final quality check to make sure that nothing has been missed by the copy editor.
As a proofreader you would carefully check the 'proofs' (which show how the final pages will be laid out), using either a printed ('hard') copy or an on-screen version.
Your main tasks would include checking that:
- there are no errors such as letters in the wrong order
- all the material is included and is in the right place
- page numbers are in the right order
- the document follows the 'house style'
- chapter titles match the list of contents
- there are no confusing word, column or page breaks
- illustrations have the right captions and relate to the text
- the layout is logical and attractive.
You would mark any necessary changes using British Standards Institution symbols, which are internationally recognised. When working directly on computer, you may use specialist software to mark up the document. If necessary, you would also produce a separate list of any queries which need to be resolved.
Before marking any changes that could have a major effect on overall layout, you would discuss them with your client – at this stage the changes could result in unacceptable costs or delay.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You do not need any particular qualifications to be a proofreader. Employers will usually be more interested in your experience than your qualifications. Many proofreaders have had previous experience in publishing, journalism or other related areas.
In practice, however, many proofreaders are graduates, so it could be an advantage if you have a degree, perhaps in English or in a subject which could become your specialist area for proofreading. For example, a science degree would be useful for proofreading scientific textbooks or manuals.
As a beginner, you can do short courses through the Society for Editors and Proofreaders (SfEP) and the Publishing Training Centre. You can also study the Publishing Training Centre Basic Proofreading course by distance learning.
When you have completed the SfEP courses you can get support in establishing your career by joining the SfEP mentoring scheme.
See the SfEP and the Publishing Training Centre websites for more details.
What further training and development can I do?
In some publishing companies you will receive in-house training when you start work. You can also develop your skills by attending courses like those run by the Society for Editors and Proofreaders (SfEP) and the Publishing Training Centre.
As an experienced proofreader, you can join the SfEP accreditation and registration scheme. This involves passing a proofreading test and getting recommendations from clients.
It would be useful to become a member of professional bodies such as the SfEP, Women in Publishing and the Publishers' Association, as this would give you opportunities for support and professional networking.
As a member of SfEP, your details can be entered on the society's directory, which is a resource for those needing proofreading and editing services.
You would need to keep up to date with developments in publishing, and with technical skills such as changes in relevant computer software. You can do training in these areas by seminar and distance learning through the SfEP and the Publishing Training Centre.
Where can I go for more information?
Tel: 08080 300 900 (England and Northern Ireland)Tel: 0808 100 8094 (Scotland)
Tel: 08000 121 815 (Wales)
21 Caledonian Road
London
N1 9GB
Wandsworth
London
SW18 2QZ
Tel: 020 8874 2718
1 Putney Bridge Approach
Fulham
London
SW6 3JD
Tel: 020 7736 3278
London
WC1B 5BW
Tel: 020 7691 9191
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser at Careers Advice, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
Freelance proofreaders are usually paid by the page or the hour. The minimum rate recommended by the Society for Editors and Proofreaders (SfEP) from March 2008 is £19.25 an hour. Visit the SfEP website for the latest figures.
Rates of pay depend on experience, with new proofreaders often being paid a lower rate.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
As a freelance proofreader you would usually work from home and arrange your own hours, based on the amount of work you have.
If you work for an employer you would typically work 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, but may sometimes need to work extra hours to meet deadlines.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- a good standard of English, especially grammar and spelling
- concentration, accuracy and attention to detail
- good IT skills
- self-motivation
- a methodical approach
- the ability to cope with repetitive tasks
- tact and diplomacy for dealing with writers.
What opportunities are there?
You would usually be self-employed and work as a freelancer.
Vacancies are sometimes advertised in the national press or on websites such as Publishing News and The Bookseller . However, jobs for full-time, in-house proofreaders are rare, and competition is strong.
Few proofreaders earn a full-time living from this work – you may need to combine proofreading with another job.
As an experienced proofreader you could build up your reputation as a specialist in a particular field, or go for more high-profile work.
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