15

Aug

The Proof Is In the Reading: Being a Better Proofreader

There is a difference between a good and a bad writer. That difference is proofreading. Occasionally, you will read a piece of writing and become engrossed by it. You find the content interesting, relevant and enjoyable to read. However it is possible that bad grammar, spelling, and punctuation can lift you out of the experience. The content can be fantastic but proofreading can make it even better.

The freelance writer needs to proofread. The content may be first class but if the piece is full of mistakes it can frustrate the reader. As a writer you need to ensure that your work will not be undermined by something as simple as a spelling mistake. You want the reader to engage with your work and not give up because the structure is all over the place. In a busy marketplace it is important to make your work stand out from the rest.

Consider the following to help you proofread effectively:

Use your computer’s spellchecker.

If you are unsure about the spelling of a particular word then let the computer decide for you. Depending on the programme you are using to write you may find the computer alerts you to bad spelling and grammar by underlining the mistakes. Don’t ignore it and claim superiority over the technology. Most of the time your computer is better than you at picking up errors. Not always of course. Be aware that some words can have different spellings depending on the country. The computer’s auto correct can replace your intended word with something else so always check through manually and don’t rely on your computer to do everything.

Read your work aloud.

This will alert you to bad punctuation and grammar. A spoken voice is similar to your inner voice when reading.

Ask somebody else to proofread.

A second pair of eyes on your work may spot something you have missed. You don’t have to agree with them but a second or third opinion can be helpful.

Take a break.

Don’t send your article to the publisher immediately. Leave your writing for a little while and then come back with fresh eyes and read through it again. Giving your brain time to recharge may alert you to mistakes you hadn’t noticed earlier.

Print out your work.

Read your writing in a different context. If your eyes have been attuned to the computer screen for a while you may have missed some obvious mistakes. Therefore try reading from a piece of paper and see if it makes a difference to you.

Don’t skim read.

Take your time in your proofreading. A quick scan is not good enough. Read through several times until you are happy with it. The more confident you are in your work, then the more confident the reader will be in trusting your skill.