proofreading essays

Free online proofreading and essay editor

A reliable proofreading tool and essay editor for any writer or student, a complete environment.

Typely is more than just a proofreading tool. It's a complete writing environment.

Thousands of checks

More than a thousand checks are being performed and we've only scratched the surface.

Inspired by the greatest writers

Gain access to humanity’s collective understanding about the craft of writing.

A proofreading tool that does not bark at every tree

Typely is precise. Existing tools for proofreading raise so many false alarms that their advice cannot be trusted. Instead, the writer must carefully consider whether to accept or reject each change.

We aim for a tool so precise that it becomes possible to unquestioningly adopt its recommendations and still come out ahead — with stronger, tighter prose. Better to be quiet and authoritative than loud and unreliable.

Relax, focus, write your next masterpiece...

Writing presumes more than simply laying out words on a paper. Typely helps you get in the mood and keeps you focused, immersed and ready to write your story.

Whether you need a distraction-free environment, some chill relaxing sounds or a pomodoro timer to manage your time we got you covered.

Got questions? We have answers.

No. Typely is completely free and we plan on keeping it that way. We are considering some advanced features however that might be available under a premium plan.

The only limit we have applied thus far is on the number of characters you can submit and that is being set at a maximum of 50,000.

In theory yes but that will require a lot of work and professionals dedicated for this job. We are considering a way of letting the community participate somehow.

Typely does not do grammar checking because it's hard and almost impossible to get right. The aim for Typely is to be precise and reliable.

Essay Proofreading Fast, Affordable, Professional

Perfect your essays with our specialized Essay Proofreading service. Our professional editors, with years of experience, meticulously review your documents, addressing grammar, spelling, and overall clarity issues. Whether it's a personal statement, a research paper, or any academic essay, our proofreading services, tailored for various subject areas, include a sample edit to showcase our expertise. With our dedicated Essay Proofreading service, you can refine your writing to meet university standards and impress your audience.

Try before you buy.

Get an instant quote. Services are available 24/7.

• Essay Proofreading

Essay Proofreading Service: Elevate Your Essay's Quality

Before you submit your well-crafted assignment that's been through several revisions, consider getting a professional proofreader to give it a final check. Our Essay Proofreading service is here to catch any typos, fix grammar issues, and polish your writing . 

Our experienced editors go beyond simple corrections, providing helpful suggestions to improve your work. Ensure your essay is graded for its ideas, not marked down for avoidable errors. Fine-tune your academic writing so you can succeed.

Professional Essay Proofreading to Ensure Your Success

When it comes to your academic success, our Essay Proofreading service is committed to providing meticulous proofreading to polish your written work to perfection. Our team of experienced editors specializes in proofreading essays across various subjects and disciplines. Whether you're a university student working on a term paper or an aspiring professional crafting a personal statement , our professional essay proofreading services are tailored to meet your specific needs.

Our essay proofreading services go beyond traditional editing, addressing not only grammatical errors and spelling mistakes but also focusing on refining the overall clarity and coherence of your essays. Our seasoned editors have years of experience in diverse subject areas, including social sciences, ensuring that your document is proofread with a keen understanding of the specific requirements of your field. We employ sophisticated proofreading tools and a comprehensive editing process to enhance the quality of your essay, ensuring it meets the highest academic standards.

In our Essay Proofreading service, we understand the importance of adhering to word count limits and maintaining a polished writing style. With our professional Essay Proofreading service, you can trust that your essays will not only be error-free but also convey your ideas with precision, making a lasting impression on your instructors and peers.

Professional editing and proofreading are now even more affordable!

With Scribendi's 10% student discount, you can take your documents to the next level. Our expert editors can enhance your essays, research papers, assignments, and personal documents with ease. Simply use the coupon code on our Student Discount page to start improving your writing today. Don't miss out on this limited time offer!

What will you receive with our Essay Proofreading service? 

• A revised copy of your document in which the typos, spelling errors, and grammar errors have been corrected
• Tracked revisions so that you can see and review all the changes that have been made
• Comments noting any issues or concerns that remain in the document
• A short summary of the work that has been done and any major concerns

What types of documents can you use our Essay Proofreading service for?

• Essays, term papers, and research papers
• Reports and compositions
• Written assignments
• Note: Essay Proofreading is for final drafts of documents that have already been edited at least once. If you would like help with style, word choice, sentence structure, and overall organization, our Essay Editing service can provide everything that you need!
• Note: Scribendi does not paraphrase quotations or rewrite sentences to avoid plagiarism.

Generative AI has become increasingly relevant in academia and can impact academic services at Scribendi; click here to see Scribendi’s policy on generative AI .

We can handle most file types , and Scribendi has 20 years of experience in a wide range of subjects and disciplines. We keep all material confidential , and we have strict privacy policies when it comes to your personal information. Uploads and downloads are safe and securely encrypted .

Getting Essay Proofreading is easy . Just get an instant quote below so that you can place your order today !

Looking for other s tudent services ? We also offer Admissions Editing and Admissions Proofreading .

  Get an Instant Quote and Place Your Order

Essay proofreading service faqs, how do i proofread my essay.

Proofreading your essay is crucial. Our Essay Proofreading service helps identify and correct errors in grammar, spelling, and structure. Our professional editors have years of experience and expertise, ensuring your document meets university standards. Utilize our proofreading services to enhance your paper's overall quality; these services include a thorough review of the word count and address subject-specific nuances. Whether it's a personal statement, a research paper, or any essay, our experienced editors in the social sciences and various subject areas offer a sample edit to showcase our meticulous proofreading and editing experience. Trust our Essay Proofreading service for polished, error-free writing.

Where can I get my essay proofread?

Our professional Essay Proofreading service is your solution for a polished, error-free essay. Our experienced editors, specializing in various subject areas and with years of editing experience, meticulously review your document. From correcting grammar and spelling errors to improving overall structure, our service ensures your essay meets university standards. With a focus on the social sciences and other disciplines, our proofreading services include a sample edit, showcasing our expertise. Trust our Essay Proofreading service to enhance your writing, whether it's a personal statement, a research paper, or any academic essay. Ensure a refined and flawless document with our dedicated proofreading professionals.

How much does it cost to proofread 1,000 words?

The cost to proofread 1,000 words with our professional Essay Proofreading service is affordable and tailored to your needs. Our experienced editors ensure your document is error-free, adheres to university standards, and meets your specific requirements. With competitive rates for our proofreading services, including a thorough review of grammar, spelling, and overall clarity, you can trust our editing professionals to enhance your essay. Whether it's a personal statement, a research paper, or any academic document, our Essay Proofreading service delivers quality results within your budget, ensuring your writing is polished and refined for academic success.

What is the website for essay proofreading?

For professional essay proofreading services, visit our website. Our experienced editors ensure your document is error-free, meeting university standards. With expertise in various subject areas and years of editing experience, we provide a sample edit to showcase our meticulous proofreading. Trust our Essay Proofreading service to enhance your writing, whether it's a personal statement, a research paper, or any academic essay. Utilize our website for a comprehensive proofreading service addressing grammar, spelling, and overall clarity. Our dedicated service is designed to refine and polish your writing for academic success.

• Link to facebook
• Link to linkedin
• Link to twitter
• Link to youtube

Professional editing and proofreading services at your fingertips

We’ll pair your work with the perfect editor – or editing team – for the job.

Expert Editor

Select Your Profile

I need student proofreading services for my college or university work

• Dissertation
• Admission Essay
• Literature Review
• PhD Proposal
• Statement Of Purpose

I need proofreading and editing for my research or related writing

• Research Proposal
• Research Paper
• Journal Article
• Grant Proposal

My business has documents or content that needs proofreading and editing

• AI-Generated Content
• Website Content
• Presentation
• Business Plan

I need an editor or proofreader for my writing project

• Short Story

Professional

I need proofreading for a document related to my career or professional life

• Personal Statement
• Cover Letter

I need proofreading and editing for a piece of academic writing

English is a second language for me, and I need a proofreader to check my writing

• Translation

I have dyslexia and need a proofreader to check my writing

What Our Customers Say

How we can help, proofreading services.

We’ll polish your writing, making sure it’s error free and easy to read. Our proofreading service includes:

• Correcting grammar, spelling, and punctuation
• Improving word choice
• Ensuring consistency
• Leaving helpful feedback
• Highlighting clarity issues

Editing Services

In addition to proofreading your work, we’ll refine your writing to ensure it has the greatest possible impact on readers. As well as basic proofreading, our editing service includes:

• Revising sentences for clarity and concision
• Restructuring text to ensure a smooth flow
• Ensuring the tone of your writing matches its purpose
• Providing feedback and advice on writing style
• Applying your preferred style guide to the letter

Formatting Services

Tell us exactly how you want your work formatted, or select from one of our predesigned templates. Common formatting options we can apply include:

• Creating a cover page
• Inserting a dynamic list of charts, figures, and tables
• Adding headers and footers
• Generating a dynamic table of contents
• Adding captions to charts, figures, and tables
• Ensuring consistency in use of fonts and styles

We Work With Every Major Format

Our system supports over 15 document formats, making it easy to submit content for proofreading and editing. Click on a file icon below to learn more.

MS Powerpoint

Google Docs

Google Slides

Google Sheets

Illustrator

Instant Quote

You can also upload a document to get an instant quote

Drag & drop your file

or browse your computer

Browse from your device

Drop your file here!

Your file is being uploaded!

3-minute read

What Is a Content Editor?

Are you interested in learning more about the role of a content editor and the…

4-minute read

The Benefits of Using an Online Proofreading Service

Proofreading is important to ensure your writing is clear and concise for your readers. Whether…

2-minute read

6 Online AI Presentation Maker Tools

Creating presentations can be time-consuming and frustrating. Trying to construct a visually appealing and informative…

What Is Market Research?

No matter your industry, conducting market research helps you keep up to date with shifting…

8 Press Release Distribution Services for Your Business

In a world where you need to stand out, press releases are key to being…

How to Get a Patent

In the United States, the US Patent and Trademarks Office issues patents. In the United…

Proofed Partners with Hypotenuse AI

AI-generated content is here and it’s revolutionizing content production. But getting that content reviewed and…

Proofed Launches Brand New Knowledge Hub!

How do you get 100 editors to make more than one million words of content…

Proofed Wins Excellence in Onboarding Award for Talent Acquisition Awards

We’re thrilled to announce that we’ve won the Excellence in Onboarding award at the Talent…

Proofed is a Finalist in the Talent Acquisition Awards!

Proofed has made it to the finals of the Talent Acquisition Awards in two categories….

Proofed Makes Inc5000 List of North-America’s Fastest Growing Companies

Proofed is delighted and humbled to announce that it has been featured on the 2022…

Proofed Announced Top 50 Inspiring Workplace in North America

Top 50 list announced at June 22nd Inspire Work Summit. We’re officially one of the…

Looking For The Perfect Proofreader?

Let our expert editors show you what they can do.

• Grammar & Spelling Check
• Free Online Proofreading
• Plagiarism Detection
• No Downloads

Use Now FREE!

Grammar Check

Robust grammar checking allows you to find those pesky mistakes and correct them before turning in your paper.

Writing Suggestions

Our proofreading system alerts you to opportunities to improve your writing.

Plagiarism Checking

Find out if your paper contains plagiarized text before your professor does. We compare your text to over 10 billion documents.

Proofread your writing with PaperRater’s free online grammar and plagiarism checkers

Requiring no downloads, the proofreader and plagiarism checker use AI to scan your essays and papers for any errors and assign them an automated score. This will help you correct any grammatical and spelling mistakes, address unintentional instances of plagiarism and earn a higher grade for your work.

Simply copy and paste your writing into the online editor or upload your file and click ‘Get Report’!

Grammar and Writing Resources

Confused about what a subordinate clause is? Or baffled by the difference between traveled and travelled ? Clear your doubts related to grammar, spelling and writing with these detailed articles and explanations:

Which is Correct, ‘Laying’ or ‘Lying’?

What are Participle Phrases and How to Use Them

An Introduction to British Slang Words

‘Ax’ vs. ‘Axe’

Lists of Adjectives Categorized by Types of Nouns

What is the Difference Between ‘Co-Worker’ and ‘Coworker’?

How Do You Spell ‘Separated’?

‘Fliers’ vs. ‘Flyers’

Immediate Results

You want instant gratification and so do we. Using Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, submissions are analyzed in real-time with results typically appearing 5-15 seconds after submission. PaperRater’s cloud-based software digs deep into the syntax and structure of your text without the need to sign up, login, or download. You won't find another tool offering plagiarism checking, automated proofreading, grammar check, and automated scoring that can analyze your text this quickly.

Is Feedback Missing From Your Feedback Loop?

The best time to receive feedback is before you turn your assignment in. Sometimes valuable feedback comes too late, which is why our automated proofreading tool can be especially helpful -- not just for detecting grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors, but also for giving helpful tips that make you a better writer. Our AI engine, Grendel , works tirelessly providing feedback that you can incorporate into your text before you pass it on for a final grade from a human.

We use this word a lot to describe our service. It's fast, free, requires no downloads or signups, and offers state-of-the-art results. Maybe this is why our grammar check tool is used by thousands of students every day in over 140 countries. If you haven't put our service to the test, give it a try now and see what all the buzz is about.

• PaperRaters for Teachers and Educators
• How does PaperRater’s Plagiarism Checker Work?
• CA Privacy Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

WRITER > GUIDES

Publish confidently by proofreading to perfection

“Writing without revising is the literary equivalent of waltzing gaily out of the house in your underwear.” — Patricia Fuller

We’re pretty open-minded, but we generally recommend that writing be at least partially dressed before sharing it with the world.

Now that just about everyone is a writer, just about everyone is a proofreader too, when you think about it. Which is why we believe now is the time to get clear about what exactly proofreading entails in our modern world.

What is proofreading?

Proofreading refers to carefully checking for writing and formatting errors in a text before it’s published. It’s the final step in making sure a piece of writing is as close to “perfect” as possible by double-checking for punctuation and spelling errors, typos, and any inconsistencies. The most important purpose of writing is to communicate your thoughts effectively. This, however, is better suited for the editing phase, not the proofreading phase. While proofreaders will check for clarity in consistency, they’re more focused on minor errors that may have slipped through. When you proofread, you evaluate the content in what will be its final, published form, or a proof. (Get it now?) Proofreaders look at more than just the words — they’re scanning for any formatting errors as well. Proofreading marks are either made on paper, or in comments and digital notes in Google Docs and word processing software, to alert the writer of suggested corrections within a document. There are both US and UK English conventions for proofreading. The final step of any personal or business writing process, proofreading is the process of identifying and correcting spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

The difference between proofreading and editing

It’s important to note that proofreading and editing are not the same. Editing involves a different skill set and is usually more time-consuming. Though there are various stages to the entire editing process, copy editing and proofreading are the two most common. Coincidentally, they’re also the two that get mixed up the most. Though developmental, structural, and line editing all deserve their time and place , they’re seen less frequently in the world of digital content creation. These parts of the editing process are better reserved for lengthier works, such as books, investigative journalism, essays, instructional works, and magazine articles. The terms copy editing and proofreading are often used interchangeably by those not familiar with the space. These two are not the same, though, and it’s crucial to be aware of their differences if you’re anyone working with written content.

Copy editing Copy editing takes place before proofreading and involves a more thorough shake down of the content at hand. Copy editors will look for things such as readability, grammar, spelling, style, syntax, and punctuation depending on what style guide they’re following. In this stage of the editing process, it’s okay to offer revisions that will require additional writing.

Examples of what a copy editor might comment: Point out wordy sentences, suggest change in word choice, fix punctuation marks in a sentence.

Proofreading Proofreading occurs after copy editing. Though proofreaders look for grammar and punctuation, they’re also focused on the overall formatting of the piece. They’re the last set of eyes before publication, so it’s their job to ensure the text is as close to perfect as it can get. No drastic changes will happen here — that’s the job of all the editors who came before.

Examples of what a proofreader might comment: Fix bad line breaks, change improper punctuation, point out incorrect page numbers.

How to proofread

Traditionally, proofreading is meant to be a relatively rapid and focused process of making sure writing is free of minor errors, such as typos that may have occurred during a more rigorous round of editing. For online publishing and blogging — which often includes transferring of content from a word processing document to a CMS (content management system) — proofreading includes making sure that formatting is correct. Adhering to a style guide — whether that be the Associated Press Stylebook , Chicago Manual of Style , or your own — is another vital part of the process. Consistency is key, and proofreaders need to be aware of what rules to follow for the given copy.

Common things to double-check when proofreading

• Links function properly and direct readers to the right pages
• Words — especially names and organizations — are spelled correctly
• Formatting appears as it was intended — bolds, italics, indentations, new paragraphs, and fonts are correct
• Proper punctuation is used throughout
• Capitalization is correct
• No “bad breaks,” such as widows or orphans
• Helpful information such as an FAQ section exists
• Consistent tenses throughout the piece
• No subject-verb agreement issues
• Headline or email subject is clear
• Citations match the brand style guide
• No misplaced or misused commas
• Voice and style are consistent throughout

When is the best time to proofread text?

The best time to proofread is during every project’s final stage, after revisions are done and copy editing has been completed. Proofreading is the last step. If you’re wondering what time is the best, we advise after morning coffee and before your deadline. Because the proofreading process is intended to be the final step before publishing or hitting “send,” the changes should be relatively minor — meaning, catching typos or errors that may have slipped by. In other words, proofreading is not the phase where you should be completely reworking a paragraph or changing the direction of your main points. Proofreading is not the time to decide that you’ve changed your stance on an important topic — that kind of change should happen during the initial planning, thesis-writing, or outline phase of your writing. In this stage, you also shouldn’t completely overhaul a piece of writing from, say, a 1,500-word blog post to a 3,000-word help article. That work should have been done during the developmental editing phase.

Top proofreading techniques and tricks

Ask someone else to proofread for you Get a pair of fresh eyes on your writing. After spending so much time on your work, you’ll be apt to accidentally glaze over errors and typographical errors. It’s like a crooked painting in your house — you don’t notice it until someone else points it out. If you have to proofread your own work, step away Close your document, shut down your computer, and take a break from staring at the screen for a few hours (the longer, the better). Go for a walk, sip some coffee, and you’ll have a fresher set of eyes when you return. Focus on one thing at a time When you’re on high-alert for every type of proofing error, it’s easier to miss some mistakes. Instead, try combing a paper only for punctuation, then again for spelling mistakes, and so on. Come back to it if you’re tired Don’t ever try to proofread at the end of the day when your attention span is nil, and all you want to do is sleep. Sleep on it and try again in the morning. Proofreading with a set of sleepy eyes is as good as not proofreading at all. Print it out Editing a hard copy — and not a digital one — will help you see your writing from a different perspective. It feels different, and putting pen to paper feels more substantive and also satisfying. Read it out loud Reading your own writing out loud is a great way to catch any misspelled words or wonky sentences you might’ve missed before. While it might feel funny at first, you’ll find yourself noticing things such as run-on sentences that you wouldn’t have otherwise when reading it silently. Allot two days to proofread Ideally, proofreading should happen at least two days before a deadline. This ensures that you’ll have enough time to implement changes with one more round of proofing to come. Take into consideration the length of your writing — the longer it is, the longer proofing will take. Use an AI proofreading tool You can use an AI writing assistant to help with proofreading digital content. Nowadays, the top ones on the market are programmed to catch spelling, grammatical errors, and some even help you adhere to your style guide . For example, Writer uses AI to catch and correct common writing mistakes — as well as ones personal to your company’s style guide — and ensure your text is ready to share. Proofreading example Editors and professional proofreaders usually check a printed “proof copy” of the text and make corrections using specialized marks. In the digital realm, proofreaders work with AI writing assistants. Most of these online proofreading and editing services also include plagiarism checkers to identify duplicate content on the web and provide an efficient solution for the publication.

Improve your proofreading skills with Writer

With edits occurring more frequently in the “tracked changes” on Microsoft Word or in suggestions on shared Google Docs, proofreaders find themselves doing their job digitally. And in a world flooded with copy and content, it’s crucial to ensure your words stand out, for all the right reasons. Writer is much more than just a spell check — think of it as your very own professional proofreader. And if you’re looking to implement language and content consistency company-wide, Writer has that too. Take your proofreading up a notch by publishing a living, breathing style guide that Writer implements almost anywhere you produce copy. With terminology management , custom writing style rules, snippets, and more, you don’t ever have to worry about your content being flooded with errors.

Illustration by Daniel Zender

Level-up your writing with Writer, your very own proofreader.

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Where Do I Begin?

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

Proofreading is primarily about searching your writing for errors, both grammatical and typographical, before submitting your paper for an audience (a teacher, a publisher, etc.). Use this resource to help you find and fix common errors.

Proofreading can be a difficult process, especially when you’re not sure where to start or what this process entails. Think of proofreading as a process of looking for any inconsistencies and grammatical errors as well as style and spelling issues. Below are a few general strategies that can help you get started.

General Strategies Before You Proofread

General strategies while you proofread, when you are done.

• Make sure that you leave plenty of time after you have finished your paper to walk away for a day or two, a week, or even 20 minutes. This will allow you to approach proofreading with fresh eyes.
• Print out a hard copy. Reading from a computer screen is not the most effective way to proofread. Having a hardcopy of your paper and a pen will help you.
• Have a list of what to look for. This will help you manage your time and not feel overwhelmed by proofreading. You can get this list from previous assignments where your instructor(s) noted common errors you make.
• Don’t rush . Many mistakes in writing occur because we rush. Read slowly and carefully to give your eyes enough time to spot errors.
• Read aloud to yourself. Reading a paper aloud encourages you to read each word and can help you notice small mistakes.
• Read aloud to a friend and have the friend give you oral feedback.
• Have a friend read your paper aloud while you don’t read along.
• Use the search in document function of the computer to look for common errors from your list.
• Read from the end. Read individual sentences one at a time starting from the end of the paper rather than the beginning. This forces you to pay attention to the sentence itself rather than to the ideas of the paper as a whole.
• Role-play. While reading, put yourself in your audience's shoes. Playing the role of the reader encourages you to see the paper as your audience might.
• Have a friend look at your paper after you have made all the corrections you identified. A new reader will be able to help you catch mistakes that you might have overlooked.
• Make an appointment with a Writing Lab tutor if you have any further questions or want someone to teach you more about proofreading.
• Ask your teacher to look at the areas you usually have trouble with to see if you have made any progress.

Looking to publish? Meet your dream editor, designer and marketer on Reedsy.

Find the perfect editor for your next book

1 million authors trust the professionals on Reedsy. Come meet them.

Blog • Understanding Publishing

Posted on Jan 31, 2020

What is Proofreading? Beginner's Guide to an Essential Edit

Whether you’re a student, a mechanic, a doctor, or a professional writer, you’ve probably come across proofreading in some form or another — though you might not be aware of it. So much of the work people do these days revolves around the written word. Mistakes in their writing can have a massive impact on their success — which is where proofreading comes in!

In this post, we’ll have a look at the ins and outs of proofreading, from the perspective of experienced proofreaders in the publishing trade .

What is proofreading?

Proofreading is the act of reading written work and marking any errors. These mistakes most commonly involve spelling, grammar, punctuation, and consistency .

What is a proof?

The ‘proof’ in ‘ proofreader ’ comes from the publishing term describing an early printed copy. Traditionally, typesetters would arrange letters tiles onto large plates that are then used to print pages of a book. But before they started churning out thousands of copies, a ‘proof’ version was sent to the publisher for a final check.

With modern digital publishing (and computerized printing methods), proofreading is now usually done on a computer — though some proofreaders still prefer marking up physical copies .

What is the difference between proofreading and editing?

In publishing, proofreading comes into play at the very end of the editorial process , after a manuscript has been corrected by a copy or line editor . The proofreader’s job is to comb through the document and look for any mistakes that may have slipped through the cracks. Regardless of how meticulous the writer and editor have been, there will almost always be errors when you’re dealing with a book of 80,000 words or more.

If you'd like to confirm which type of editing your book needs at its current stage, we recommend taking this quick quiz to find out:

What kind of editing does your book need?

Takes one minute!

Why is proofreading important?

You might remember, in early 2019, the television hit series Game of Thrones was coming to an end. Devoted and casual fans alike sat in front of screens to devour every moment of the final season. So it’s no surprise that when a Starbucks cup made an accidental cameo during one of the episodes, viewers were pointing out the gaff on social media in a heartbeat.

The show’s producers were quick to act, and 48 hours later the disposable cup had been edited out of the show. Yet there’s no denying that hundreds, if not thousands, of viewers were yanked from the medieval realm of Westeros because of this tiny appearance of a modern artefact. Suddenly, the focus is on the error, and not the story.

Do you see where we’re going with this? A manuscript peppered with typos, grammatical errors, or contextual inconsistencies will jolt a reader out of the narrative the book is meant to tell. Instead of getting caught up in the story or thesis, they’re suddenly forced to mentally rectify the work’s mechanical mistakes. So proofreading is partly important because it allows your narrative to shine through uninterrupted.

What’s more, it adds a level of professionalism that is absolutely necessary if you’re looking to get publishers or readers on your side. When confronted with an obviously un-proofed book, both audiences will likely assume the author couldn’t be bothered to truly invest in their work. And if the author didn’t seem bothered to invest, why should they?

So whether you’re planning to seek out traditional representation for your book or to publish on your own, editing and proofreading is a vital part of the publishing process.

Working with a professional proofreader

A professional proofreader does more than just look out for spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes. They will also look for consistency issues that could hamper the reading experience. This would include:

• Ensuring that any web links go to the right webpage
• Checking that the index matches the content
• Confirming that the layout doesn’t fluctuate throughout the work
• Making sure that the images have correct captions
• Verifying that the copy adheres to the author’s chosen style guide

Proofreaders will not usually copy-edit, meaning that they won't make changes directly to the manuscript. Their primary job is highlighting potential mistakes, allowing the writer or editor to make the final decision.

Who should use professional proofreading?

In traditional publishing, every book will be proofed before it’s released to the public. If a reader were to find more than a handful of typos or grammatical mistakes in a novel, for example, it could negatively color their reading experience (and damage the publisher’s reputation).

In self-publishing, proofreading is becoming a non-negotiable part of the editorial process.  Independent authors often look for ways to reduce their costs, so they’re often tempted to proofread by themselves. But as the indie book market grows and its products improve in quality, getting a professional proofread is fast becoming common practice.

Outside of trade publishing, proofreaders will often find work in areas such as academia, journalism, and even advertising . In some corporate settings, they can even be hired to check through slide decks before presentations.

How much does a professional proofreader cost?

Based on statistics from Reedsy’s marketplace , proofreading services cost $10 per thousand words, on average.

Of course, this is only a ballpark figure and the final rate will depend on a number of other factors. For example, if the proofreader needs to cross-check the index, this would naturally escalate the cost.

In non-publishing industries, costs may also vary. A proofreader with a deep background in technical writing may choose to charge extra for their expertise and fact-checking, for example. But whatever the cost, you can be sure that getting a professional proofreader is worth it.

Tips for finding a professional proofreader

There are a lot of proofreaders advertising their services out there — where do you begin to find the right one for your project? We’ve got some pointers down below.

• Ask your editor. If you’re already working with an editor, it’s worth asking if they offer proofreading services. If not, they probably know other professionals that they trust will be good for your project.
• Specify your preferences. Do you like to work digitally or do you focus better reading a printed manuscript? The proofreading process is a two-way street, and when both you and the professional agree on a method, everything will be much smoother and more efficient.
• Search niche marketplaces. If you’re writing a book, it’s better to go straight to editing societies' directories or publishing marketplaces, where the proofreaders’ credentials are checked, than to browse Upwork or Fiverr. That way you don't have to spend hours sifting through portfolios of proofreaders who aren't equipped with the right knowledge to advise you, not just on your writing but also on formatting your manuscript.

Polish your book with a professional

Meet Neil Gaiman's, George R. R. Martin's, and George W. Bush's editors and proofreaders at Reedsy

Learn how Reedsy can help you craft a beautiful book.

Proofreading your own work

When it comes to a longer piece of writing meant for wider consumption — like, say, a book — there’s still nothing that can beat a trained professional.

For other types of content, however, writers can and do proofread their own work. Simply reading back something you’ve written will usually reveal typos and ungainly passages. In situations where your writing isn’t intended for a massive audience (for example, in an email to your boss), you can usually rely on an online spelling and grammar checker such as Grammarly to catch any major mistakes.

Let’s cover a couple of DIY proofreading tips to help you ensure your work is as polished as can be.

Proofreading tips

• Start with self-awareness . There are certain bad grammatical habits we’re all prone to, or particular typos that tend to crop up frequently in our work. Before you get started, take a moment to determine your own "bad writing habits." Then do a sweep of your work, concentrating just on those. For example, perhaps there's a word you know you overuse? Search for just that word and really consider whether it needs to be there.
• Read out loud. The truth is, your eyes can deceive you — and this is especially true if you're reading on a screen, where your eyes are quick to tire. You'd be surprised at how many mistakes you can spot reading something out loud vs. reading it silently in your head. A bonus tip here is to read your manuscript out loud with someone else. Take turns reading a set number of pages each, and you'll ensure you catch any awkward-sounding phrases.
• Do one thing at a time. The worst way to proofread your own work is to read through it and try to get it perfect by the end. Effective proofreading requires multiple rounds, and each round should be focused on just one task. Don't look for spelling errors at the same time as you check for homonyms, as you'll likely end up letting stuff fall through the cracks.

[updated: 08/26/2020 UTC]

Looking for a proofreader? Sign up for a free Reedsy account and browse through the best freelancers in the business.

Andrew Knight New Canaan says:

16/05/2019 – 06:34

Awesome Post. I really like it. This is a very informative post. Thanks for sharing with us. I would like to share with my friends.

Comments are currently closed.

Continue reading

Recommended posts from the Reedsy Blog

How to Publish a Book For Free: The 7 Best Sites

If you want to publish your book without spending a single dime, check out this handy list of 7 free self-publishing services.

5 Ways to Save on Your Self-Publishing Budget

If you want to self-publish a book without breaking the bank, here are 5 tips to ensure you still get the best result possible.

30 Great Book Dedication Examples to Inspire Your Own

A list of 30 of the best book dedications in the business, that'll have you crying, laughing, and crying laughing.

Expository Writing: The Craft of Sharing Information

Expository writing is a fundamental part of how we learn and make sense of the world. Learn all about it in this post.

Additional Reviews: Query Critique December 2024

Additional critiques from Reedsy's December 2024 query letter session.

How to Make Money by Writing Books: 8 Tips for Success

If you want to be an author who makes a living from books, here are eight tips to help you make money as a writer.

Join a community of over 1 million authors

Reedsy is more than just a blog. Become a member today to discover how we can help you publish a beautiful book.

We made a writing app for you

Yes, you! Write. Format. Export for ebook and print. 100% free, always.

1 million authors trust the professionals on Reedsy. Come meet them.

Enter your email or get started with a social account:

• Walden University
• Faculty Portal

Writing a Paper: Proofreading

Introduction.

Proofreading involves reading your document to correct the smaller typographical, grammatical, and spelling errors. Proofreading is usually the very last step you take before sending off the final draft of your work for evaluation or publication. It comes after you have addressed larger matters such as style, content, citations, and organization during revising. Like revising, proofreading demands a close and careful reading of the text. Although quite tedious, it is a necessary and worthwhile exercise that ensures that your reader is not distracted by careless mistakes.

Tips for Proofreading

• Set aside the document for a few hours or even a few days before proofreading. Taking a bit of time off enables you to see the document anew. A document that might have seemed well written one day may not look the same when you review it a few days later. Taking a step back provides you with a fresh (and possibly more constructive) perspective.
• Make a conscious effort to proofread at a specific time of day (or night!) when you are most alert to spotting errors. If you are a morning person, try proofreading then. If you are a night owl, try proofreading at this time.
• Reviewing the document in a different format and having the ability to manually circle and underline errors can help you take the perspective of the reader, identifying issues that you might ordinarily miss. Additionally, a hard copy gives you a different visual format (away from your computer screen) to see the words anew.
• Although useful, programs like Word's spell-checker and Grammarly can misidentify or not catch errors. Although grammar checkers give relevant tips and recommendations, they are only helpful if you know how to apply the feedback they provide. Similarly, MS Word's spell checker may not catch words that are spelled correctly but used in the wrong context (e.g., differentiating between their, they're , and there ). Beyond that, sometimes a spell checker may mark a correct word as wrong simply because the word is not found in the spell checker's dictionary. To supplement tools such as these, be sure to use dictionaries and other grammar resources to check your work. You can also make appointments with our writing instructors for feedback concerning grammar and word choice, as well as other areas of your writing!
• Reading a text aloud allows you to identify errors that you might gloss over when reading silently. This technique is particularly useful for identifying run-on and other types of awkward sentences. If you can, read for an audience. Ask a friend or family member to listen to your work and provide feedback, checking for comprehension, organization, and flow.
• Hearing someone else read your work allows you to simply listen without having to focus on the written words yourself. You can be a more critical listener when you are engaged in only the audible words.
• By reading the document backwards, sentence by sentence, you are able to focus only on the words and sentences without paying attention to the context or content.
• Placing a ruler or a blank sheet of paper under each line as you read it will give your eyes a manageable amount of text to read.
• If you can identify one type of error that you struggle with (perhaps something that a faculty member has commented on in your previous work), go through the document and look specifically for these types of errors. Learn from your mistakes, too, by mastering the problem concept so that it does not appear in subsequent drafts.
• Related to the previous strategy of checking for familiar errors, you can proofread by focusing on one error at a time. For instance, if commas are your most frequent problem, go through the paper checking just that one problem. Then proofread again for the next most frequent problem.
• After you have finished making corrections, have someone else scan the document for errors. A different set of eyes and a mind that is detached from the writing can identify errors that you may have overlooked.
• Remember that proofreading is not just about errors. You want to polish your sentences, making them smooth, interesting, and clear. Watch for very long sentences, since they may be less clear than shorter, more direct sentences. Pay attention to the rhythm of your writing; try to use sentences of varying lengths and patterns. Look for unnecessary phrases, repetition, and awkward spots.

Download and print a copy of our proofreading bookmark to use as a reference as you write!

• Proofreading Bookmark Printable bookmark with tips on proofreading a document.

Proofreading for Grammar Video

Note that this video was created while APA 6 was the style guide edition in use. There may be some examples of writing that have not been updated to APA 7 guidelines.

• Mastering the Mechanics: Proofreading for Grammar (video transcript)

Related Webinar

• Previous Page: Revising for Writing Goals
• Next Page: Reflecting & Improving
• Office of Student Disability Services

Walden Resources

Departments.

• Academic Residencies
• Academic Skills
• Career Planning and Development
• Customer Care Team
• Field Experience
• Military Services
• Student Success Advising
• Writing Skills

Centers and Offices

• Center for Social Change
• Office of Academic Support and Instructional Services
• Office of Degree Acceleration
• Office of Research and Doctoral Services
• Office of Student Affairs

Student Resources

• Doctoral Writing Assessment
• Form & Style Review
• Quick Answers
• ScholarWorks
• SKIL Courses and Workshops
• Walden Bookstore
• Walden Catalog & Student Handbook
• Student Safety/Title IX
• Legal & Consumer Information
• Website Terms and Conditions
• Cookie Policy
• Accessibility
• Accreditation
• State Authorization
• Net Price Calculator
• Contact Walden

Walden University is a member of Adtalem Global Education, Inc. www.adtalem.com Walden University is certified to operate by SCHEV © 2024 Walden University LLC. All rights reserved.

2024 Indigenous Communities Fellowship

The Dos and Don'ts of Essay Editing and Proofreading

Novella Rosely

Our Organization

Collegeessay.org

What is the name of your solution?

Provide a one-line summary of your solution..

Master the art of essay editing and proofreading with our essential dos and don'ts guide.

In what city, town, or region is your solution team headquartered?

In what country is your solution team headquartered.

• United States

What type of organization is your solution team?

Film your elevator pitch., what specific problem are you solving.

This solution addresses the common challenge of ensuring the quality and accuracy of written work through effective essay editing and proofreading. Many individuals struggle with identifying and correcting errors in their essays, leading to issues such as unclear communication, grammatical mistakes, and inconsistencies in writing style. By providing a comprehensive guide to the dos and don'ts of essay editing and proofreading, this solution aims to equip writers with the knowledge and techniques needed to enhance the clarity, coherence, and overall quality of their essays.

Through practical tips and insights, writers can learn how to approach the editing and proofreading process systematically, identifying common mistakes and applying strategies to address them effectively. By mastering the art of essay editing and proofreading, writers can ensure that their written work meets high standards of excellence, making a positive impression on readers and achieving their communication goals with confidence.

What is your solution?

Our solution addresses the critical need for effective essay editing and proofreading techniques to ensure the quality and clarity of written content. Many individuals encounter challenges in identifying and rectifying errors in their essays, resulting in unclear communication and grammatical inconsistencies. 

Through a comprehensive guide outlining the dos and don'ts of essay editing and proofreading, we aim to empower writers with the knowledge and strategies necessary to enhance the coherence and accuracy of their essays. 

By mastering these techniques, writers can ensure that their written work meets high standards of excellence, leaving a positive impression on readers and achieving their communication objectives confidently.

Collegeessay.org offers a affordable research paper writing service tailored to the budgetary constraints of students. Despite its cost-effectiveness, the platform ensures top-notch quality and adherence to academic standards, making it a popular choice among students seeking a cheap yet reliable solution.

Specializing in college-level research papers, Collegeessay.org provides customized solutions to meet the specific requirements of students. Its team of experienced writers is well-versed in academic standards, ensuring that each paper is tailored to the unique needs of college assignments.

As a legitimate research paper writing service, Collegeessay.org prioritizes integrity and professionalism in every aspect of its operation. From transparent policies to secure transactions, the platform instills trust and confidence in its customers, ensuring a seamless and reliable experience.

Experience excellence in essay writing with Collegeessay.org . Take the first step towards academic success today!

Myperfectwords.com sets the standard for professional excellence in research paper writing services. With a team of seasoned writers holding advanced degrees in various disciplines, it delivers top-quality papers tailored to the highest academic standards.

As a legitimate research paper writing service , Myperfectwords.com upholds the highest ethical standards in its operations. It prioritizes authenticity, originality, and academic integrity, ensuring that every paper produced is free from plagiarism and adheres to academic guidelines. Customers can trust Myperfectwords.com as a reliable partner in their academic journey.

Create exceptional essays with ease by utilizing  Myperfectwords.com expert essay writing service. Begin your journey to excellence today!

Which Indigenous community(s) does your solution benefit? In what ways will your solution benefit this community?

The solution of providing advice on good essay editing and proofreading processes can aid Indigenous communities by giving them access to information and tools for improving their written communication skills. Many Indigenous people may encounter barriers to getting adequate education or be disadvantaged within school systems, resulting in deficiencies in academic abilities such as writing. 

By giving clear and extensive instruction on essay editing and proofreading, this service can help Indigenous people improve their writing skills, so boosting their academic and professional chances. 

Furthermore, by encouraging clarity and coherence in written communication, this solution can assist Indigenous people better explain their perspectives, stories, and cultural knowledge, creating greater understanding and representation in academic and larger societal contexts.

How are you and your team well-positioned to deliver this solution?

Our team comprises skilled writers, editors, and quality assurance specialists who are committed to upholding the highest standards of quality and integrity in our work.

Expertise:  Our team members possess expertise in various subjects and academic disciplines, allowing us to tackle a wide range of writing assignments with confidence and proficiency.

Experience:  With years of experience in the writing industry, we have honed our skills in research, writing, editing, and proofreading to deliver high-quality and original content consistently.

Quality Assurance:  We have robust quality assurance processes in place to ensure that every piece of writing meets our stringent standards for originality, accuracy, and coherence. This includes utilizing plagiarism detection tools and conducting thorough reviews before delivering the final product to our clients.

Customer Satisfaction : We prioritize customer satisfaction and strive to exceed our clients' expectations with every project. Our dedicated customer support team is available around the clock to address any concerns or inquiries promptly.

Adaptability:  We understand that each client and project is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet individual needs and preferences. Whether it's meeting tight deadlines, accommodating specific requirements, or providing ongoing support, we are adaptable and responsive to our clients' needs.

Ethical Standards:  We are committed to upholding ethical standards in our work and promoting academic and professional integrity. Our team members adhere to strict guidelines regarding citation, attribution, and originality to ensure that our clients receive non-plagiarized essays that meet the highest ethical standards.

In summary, our team's expertise, experience, commitment to quality assurance, focus on customer satisfaction, adaptability, and adherence to ethical standards uniquely position us to deliver the solution of "Guaranteed Original Writing: Delivering Non-Plagiarized Essays" effectively and reliably. We are dedicated to helping our clients achieve their academic and professional goals while upholding the principles of honesty, integrity, and excellence in writing.

Which dimension of the Challenge does your solution most closely address?

Which of the un sustainable development goals does your solution address.

• 4. Quality Education

What is your solution’s stage of development?

Please share details about why you selected the stage above..

One of the most important skills that a student should acquire during their academic career is the art of academic writing.

Why are you applying to Solve?

Collegeessay.org is your ultimate solution for all academic writing requirements. With a team of more than 280 proficient writers, we ensure top-notch quality, original papers delivered punctually. Our service proudly holds a SiteJabber rating of 4.8 and ResellerRatings of 4.9, demonstrating our dedication to exceeding customer expectations.

In which of the following areas do you most need partners or support?

• Public Relations (e.g. branding/marketing strategy, social and global media)
• Technology (e.g. software or hardware, web development/design)

Who is the Team Lead for your solution?

How is your team lead connected to the community or communities in which your project is based.

Through various means such as outreach programs, partnerships with local organizations, or actively involving community members in the development process through feedback sessions or consultations. The aim is to ensure that the project serves the needs of the communities it aims to benefit and that its implementation is culturally sensitive and inclusive.

Solution Team

The Solve team will review your report and remove any inappropriate content.

Why is this item inappropriate?

We use cookies.

We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your browsing experience on our website and to understand where our visitors are coming from. By browsing our website, you consent to our use of cookies and other tracking technologies.

Free Essay Checker

Try our other writing services

Correct your entire essay within 5 minutes

• Proofread on 100+ language issues
• Specialized in academic texts
• Corrections directly in your essay

Correct your entire essay in 5 minutes

Why this is the best free essay checker.

Tested most accurate

In the test for the best grammar checker , Scribbr found 19 out of 20 errors.

No signup needed

You don’t have to register or sign up. Insert your text and get started right away.

Long texts, short texts it doesn’t matter – there’s no character or word limit.

Don’t wait for ads or distractions. The essay checker is ad-free!

Nobody's perfect all the time—and now, you don’t have to be!

There are times when you just want to write without worrying about every grammar or spelling convention. The online proofreader immediately finds all of your errors. This allows you to concentrate on the bigger picture. You’ll be 100% confident that your writing won’t affect your grade.

Correcting your grammar

The Scribbr essay checker fixes grammar mistakes like:

• Sentence fragments & run-on sentences
• Subject-verb agreement errors
• Issues with parallelism

Spelling & Typos

Basic spell-checks often miss academic terms in writing and mark them as errors. Scribbr has a large dictionary of recognized (academic) words, so you can feel confident every word is 100% correct.

Punctuation errors

The essay checker takes away all your punctuation worries. Avoid common mistakes with:

• Dashes and hyphens
• Apostrophes
• Parentheses
• Question marks
• Colons and semicolons
• Quotation marks

Avoid word choice errors

Should you use   “affect” or “effect” ? Is it   “then” or “than” ? Did you mean   “there,” “their,” or “they’re” ?

Never worry about embarrassing word choice errors again. Our grammar checker will spot and correct any errors with   commonly confused words .

Improve your text with one click

The Scribbr Grammar Checker allows you to accept all suggestions in your document with a single click.

Give it a try!

Correct your entire document in 5 minutes

Would you like to upload your entire essay and check it for 100+ academic language issues? Then Scribbr’s AI-powered proofreading is perfect for you.

With the AI Proofreader, you can correct your text in no time:

• Upload document
• Wait briefly while all errors are corrected directly in your document
• Correct errors with one click

Proofread my document

A Grammar Checker for all English variants

There are important differences between the versions of English used in different parts of the world, including UK and US English . Our essay checker supports a variety of major English dialects:

• Canadian English
• Australian English

Why users love our Essay Checker

Save time and upload your entire essay to fix it in minutes, ask our team.

Want to contact us directly? No problem.  We  are always here for you.

• Email [email protected]
• Start live chat
• Call +1 (510) 822-8066
• WhatsApp +31 20 261 6040

Frequently asked questions

Our Essay Checker can detect most grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes. That said, we can’t guarantee 100% accuracy. 

Absolutely! The Essay Checker is particularly useful for non-native English speakers, as it can detect mistakes that may have gone unnoticed.

The exact time depends on the length of your document, but, in most cases it doesn’t take more than a minute.