proofread

Proofread is the process of reviewing a text after editing to identify and correct errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, typographical errors, and formatting inconsistencies, ensuring clarity and accuracy before publication or distribution.

Typical tasks include checking spelling, grammar and punctuation; ensuring consistent spelling of terms; verifying capitalization; correcting typographical errors; confirming dates, numbers, and references are accurate; maintaining style and formatting consistency with a prescribed guide.

Proofreading is distinct from editing and copy editing; editing may involve structural changes, sentence-level rewrites, and clarifications; proofreading is usually the final quality check on a ready-to-publish draft.

Process may involve multiple passes; use style guides; rely on both automated tools and human review; in print, proofs refer to page proofs printed for final check; in digital, final checks across platforms.

Common issues and best practices include homophones, missing articles, misplaced punctuation; consistent use of hyphenation, apostrophes; check formatting: fonts, margins, headings; adopt a checklist; read aloud; take breaks; proofreader marks vary.