Definition of a Proofreader:
A Proofreader is the last person to check a written document before it goes to press or is distributed.
Using proofreaders' marks you will create a style sheet which may be based on a style sheet a copyeditor provides you with, and always read your style guide. As a proofreader, you will proof and edit text, read the body of work all the way through first, then front to back and back to front to catch all errors. You will correct spelling, grammar and inconsistencies in the text, and even check for factual inaccuracies. As a proofreader, you will also check that graphics and captions are in the right place, check that the font is consistent throughout the entire body of work, and check spacing between headlines and paragraphs. Finally, check for proper line breaks and any trapped white space, which is defined as not margins, gutters or line breaks.
Definition of a Copyeditor:
A Copyeditor will always correct errors, ask the author about statements that you question or don't understand. Using a style guide, a copyeditor will edit the written document for consistency and prepare a style sheet that may be passed on to the proofreader. A copyeditor will be asked to perform a certain type of edit and this will determine their job responsibilities. It will either be a light/baseline, medium or heavy/substantive editing that they are asked to do.
Light copyediting entails the basics of correcting spelling, punctuation, grammatical errors, fixing incorrect usage of words, and be sure that capitalizations and abbreviations are consistent.
Medium copyediting entails everything listed for light editing plus making note of incorrect statements, changing text and headers for parallel structure, enforcing style and tone throughout the body of work and making sure to change the passive voice to active if necessary.
Heavy copyediting entails everything listed for medium editing plus eliminating wordiness, rearranging sentences to make the text easier to read, and suggesting additions and deletions both at the sentence and paragraph level. Improve the flow of text and contribute to the overall quality of writing rather than just correct usage and grammar. You will suggest changes rather than only making note of them, and enforce a tone if requested by the author or publisher.
