Corrections

Corrections is the plural of correction, referring to actions or processes that rectify errors, deficiencies, or deviations, as well as the institutions responsible for supervising and rehabilitating offenders in the criminal justice system. The term is used across fields and contexts.

In publishing, corrections refer to changes made to fix errors in a text after initial publication. Errata and corrigenda appear in print, while digital media allow updates and revised editions. Corrections help maintain accuracy and may be issued in subsequent editions or online notices.

In science and data analysis, corrections are adjustments applied to measurements or observations to account for known biases, distortions, or systematic errors. Examples include instrument calibration, atmospheric extinction corrections in astronomy, and bias corrections in survey data.

In law and corrections, the term denotes the system of correctional institutions and programs—such as prisons, jails, probation, and parole—designed to manage, punish, and rehabilitate offenders and to protect public safety. Policy debates focus on effectiveness, human rights, and recidivism.

In computing and digital technologies, error correction and related concepts appear in error-correcting codes, proofreading algorithms, and data integrity checks, which detect and fix faults or inconsistencies in information processing.