what is proofreading

Proofreading is the process of carefully checking a text for errors before it is published or shared. It is the final stage of the editing process, where minor spelling and punctuation mistakes, typos, formatting issues, and inconsistencies are fixed. Proofreading is essential for any text that will be shared with an audience, whether its an academic paper, a job application, an online article, or a print flyer. Proofreaders catch spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors, and they also look at the formatting to make sure all elements are included and appear as they should. The term "proofreading" is sometimes used incorrectly to refer to copy editing, but proofreading is a distinct process that focuses only on reading the text to ensure it is error-free and ready for publication. Proofreaders typically lack any real editorial or managerial authority, but they can mark queries for typesetters, editors, or authors. Proofreading is the last step of the editing process, and it is limited in scope compared to other editing processes.