Proof-reading vs Copy-editing

Quite often I hear from clients to explain them difference between a copy-editor and proof-reader given that nowadays many think of them to be the same. For sake of truth, they might seem the same, but in reality they differ. So, I have decided to decode similarities and differences between these too specialties.     

 The proof-reader performs elementary work - eliminates grammatical, punctuation and misprints, monitors the technical aspect and attractiveness of the text (authenticity of quotes, terms, the presence of footnotes, the correspondence of the placement of tables and other graphic materials regarding its content).

However, the editor goes deeper. He is obliged to delve into the content of the work, imbued with the thoughts and feelings of the author. Editing text takes longer than proofreading. For example, the editor is more likely to rewrite a complex sentence, divide it into two, and slightly change the presentation without losing meaning. The task of the proof-reader is to correct typos and errors. It should not significantly change not only the meaning, but also the style of the article.

  Tasks

 The duties of the proof-reader include:

1) checking the compliance of the text with the regulatory requirements of the language of presentation;

2) correction of incorrect abbreviations, designations and other features of the text;

3) checking the presence of the declared components of the text (introduction, tables, etc.);

4) final proofreading of the material before its publication.

 The editor is obliged:

1) checking and eliminate stylistic errors in the text;

2) making sure of the truthfulness of the information, the appropriateness of the use of terms;

3) eliminating logical errors in the content, if necessary, divide it into semantic blocks, sections and subsections;

4) increasing the information content of the text, that is, remove unnecessary words and expressions, length;

5) choosing clearer formulations and speech constructions that will not affect the meaning of the original.

 Sequence of execution

 Editorial changes precede proofreading. The editor notes and removes all the shortcomings of the text, corrects its inaccuracies and errors.

 After making edits to the final copy, the proof-reader performs proofreading - verifies the layout text with the editorial edits.

 In general terms, the task of the editor is more difficult, since he often has to work with "raw" materials. But this is only at first glance: the proof-reader pays no less, and perhaps even more, attention to the text, especially at the stage of final proofreading.

 Often the editor and proof-reader are one person. But this approach to material polishing increases the burden on those responsible for the cleanliness of the articles and their correctness. Ideally, a whole team of authors, editors and content specialists work on one text. In this case, it will turn out to be as close to the ideal as possible.

 Why do you need editing and proofreading of printed materials?

If you have written a book or article and are planning to publish it, you need to review the content of your work by professionals. Even literate authors resort to the services of proof-readers and editors, because for various reasons people tend not to notice their mistakes.

 Verification of texts is also necessary for site owners, because content with an abundance of annoying and random blunders repels readers and raises doubts about the professionalism of the resource. The content on your site may have acceptable content, but not work due to the presence of errors imperceptible to your eyes.

 Therefore, it is worth submitting articles to the editor or at least a proof-reader for review. So you insure yourself against ridiculous embarrassment. It doesn't cost as much as your reputation and, worse, your target audience's dissatisfaction.