Unit 12: Proofreading and Editing

Why edit and proofread?Make everything correct and this takes time

Careless copy could harm the credibility of the yearbook and the staff.

Raises doubt about the accuracy of the whole book.

Polishes the rough edges of clumsy grammar.

Who should proofread?

Every writer

Then another staff member

Then to the section editor

Then to the editor-in-chief

Finally to the adviser

What to know

Style sheet

Reference books

Grammatical rules

Breaking the rules

Story organization

When to be suspicious

The proofreader’s tools

Dictionary

Thesaurus

Staff style sheet

Grammar book

Student/faculty directory

Telephone book

Red pen

Lack of fear

How to use proofreading marks

Read the copy all the way through to see if it makes sense.

Read carefully for correct facts, logical order and holes in the story.

If a question comes to mind, make a note and encourage the writer to fill the information gap.

How to use proofreading marks continued…

Read the copy a second time for correct spelling and grammar, analyzing it word-by-word.

By starting at the bottom and reading backwards, you can avoid mindless skimming and concentrate on each word.

Use standard proofreading marks (see bulletin board)

How to mark copy and proofs

CopyStories should be proofread before they are typed on the final form submitted to the publisher.

Original copy, typed double-spaced, will leave adequate room for making a correction over a word.

You can also draw a line to the margin and write the correction there.

How to mark copy and proofs continued…

CopyMake corrections neatly so they can be interpreted by the writer when the copy is returned.

Type the story on the Attached Copy/Copyfitting form, then proofread for any typing errors.

Make corrections on all three layers using the proofreading marks.

If the page begins to look messy – retype it.

How to mark copy and proofs continued…

ProofsMany staffs receive proofs, or replicas of yearbook layouts and text.

They are sent from the publisher for examination and final corrections.

Neatly write proofreading marks on the proofs with a red ballpoint pen.

Allow enough time to take a rest and return refreshed if necessary.