Proofreading
A final check for errors before publication or submission
Proofreading is the final stage of the editorial process. It focuses on identifying and correcting surface-level errors once all other editing is complete.
This service is designed to catch typographical errors, spelling mistakes and punctuation issues—not to address clarity, style, or structure. The aim is to give your manuscript a clean, professional finish before it reaches readers.
What's Included:
Proofreading provides a careful, final pass of your manuscript to identify and correct:
- Spelling and typographical errors;
- Punctuation mistakes;
- Grammatical slips;
- Minor formatting inconsistencies;
- Obvious word omissions or repetitions.
Edits are made using Track Changes, so you remain fully in control of what you accept or reject.
What's Not Included:
This service does not include:
- Line or copy editing;
- Improvements to clarity, flow, or style;
- Structural or developmental feedback;
- Rewriting or ghostwriting.
Proofreading is not a substitute for editing. If your manuscript has not yet been professionally edited, I’ll recommend a more suitable service to ensure you get the best possible outcome.
Who This Service is Best For:
Proofreading is ideal if you:
- Have a fully edited manuscript;
- Are preparing for publication or submission;
- Want a final professional check before your book goes live;
- Need reassurance that obvious errors have been addressed.
This service works best once all revisions are complete and no further changes are planned.
What You'll Receive:
When the proofread is complete, you’ll receive:
- Your proofread manuscript with tracked changes;
- A clean version of the manuscript (on request).
You’re welcome to ask follow-up questions if you need clarification on any changes.
Timescales & Booking:
Turnaround time depends on word count and availability, but most proofreading projects are completed within one to three weeks.
If your manuscript is already formatted, proofreading can usually be scheduled closer to your publication date.
Pricing:
Prices start from $0.004 / £0.003 per word
Pricing is based on word count and the level of editing required, and a tailored quote will always be provided before any work begins.
FAQs
Can you proofread an unedited manuscript?
Proofreading is only suitable for manuscripts that have already been professionally edited.
If your manuscript hasn’t yet been through developmental or line-level editing, I’ll recommend a more appropriate service so you get the best possible results.
Can you proofread my manuscript before I format it?
Yes, I can proofread unformatted manuscripts. However, formatting may introduce new errors.
Wherever possible, I recommend proofreading your final, formatted manuscript to ensure the cleanest result.
Will my manuscript by completely error-free after proofreading?
I work carefully and thoroughly to catch as many errors as possible and deliver a clean, polished manuscript.
That said, no editor can guarantee a 100% error-free text. Even traditionally-published books occasionally contain the odd typo. What I can promise is professional standards, close attention to detail, and genuine care for your work.
Next Steps
If your manuscript is fully edited and ready for a final check before publication or submission, proofreading may be the right next step.