Proofreading is an important step in the editing process and can be accomplished in a timely manner if you find the right service. Finding an efficient and meticulous person who is a professional editor and proofreader can work for you because they want everything to be perfect, and so do you. Generally, the services I provide as an editor are copy editing, line editing and proofreading. My specialties include, but are not limited to historical fiction, high fantasy, science fiction and historical biographies. Considering the rush a lot of us are in daily and the constant lack of time, presentation of work can occasionally be unintentionally sloppy. An editor and proofreader will check the appropriate use of language and language consistency such as, grammar, syntax, spelling, punctuation, clarity of expression, terms used, spelling, use of capitals, use of hyphens, abbreviations and numbers and graphs. Generally, for online work, editors use Microsoft Word's Track Changes. Every suggestion made on the document will be 'tracked', and queries or comments will be placed in the margin. Authors can choose to keep or not keep the changes.
There are significant differences between each level of editing:
• Line (Structural) Editing: Line editing focuses on the content, structure, language and style of a manuscript. Some restructuring and rewording might also be done in the interests of accessibility, clarity, a cohesive style and tone, and reader focus.
• Copy Editing: Copy editing occurs to remove mistakes, inconsistencies, or meagre styles of expression that could irritate or mislead readers and humiliate the author. At the copy-editing phase, the editor concentrates on the particulars of language, spelling and punctuation; on attaining consistency of style and layout; and on checking references, illustrations, tables, headings, sequences, links and preliminary matter and end matter.
• Proofreading: The principal purpose of proofreading is to confirm that there are no discrepancies between the edited master copy and the formatted proof, that the manuscript is comprehensive, and that the standard of presentation is appropriate for submission or to be published.
A proofreader compares the corrected version of a document with the initial proof, where each word is monitored, and ensure each component of the document is analyzed so that everything has been included and is in the right location. In addition, every single page is then explored to validate that the layout and type stipulations have been precisely followed. When people enquire about quotes for proofreading services, sometimes they really need structural editing, copy editing, or both, that's why many editors and proofreaders like to see the work up front, to ensure an accurate quote.