It is fairly common for first-time users of professional proofreading services to be unclear about how editing and proofreading differ. It is critical to know what the main differences between these services are before ordering, this article provides a quick overview.
A definition of editing and proofreading
Dissimilar to professional proofreading, editing involves revising and offering recommendations about the content of the piece of writing. Editors, like proofreaders, check spelling and grammar, but editors provide a more comprehensive intervention for a document that covers flow, readability, style, and accuracy.
What to look for in an editor or proofreader
Finding a good editor can be more difficult than finding a good professional proofreading service. The reason for this is that it takes a more knowledgeable talent to be an editor and a proofreader.
This is not to say that proofreading is not a complex task, which it is; rather, it is simply important to recognise that editing requires a broader skillset compared to proofreading.
Specifically, editors need to do everything that proofreaders do, but they also need to have subject-specific knowledge, as well as stronger writing and organisation skills.
For these reasons, choosing an editor is something that should be done carefully, especially if your document is in a poor condition and you need extensive intervention, restructuring, and advice.
How do you know which is right for you?
As this article has shown, editing is a more comprehensive process compared to proofreading. For this reason, professional proofreading services are usually cheaper than editing services. If price is a defining issue for you, this may be the most important criterion that helps you determine which is the right fit for you.
Even if the pricier nature of editing services is not a barrier, you may not need such an extensive service. For example, if you are happy with the accuracy, structure, and readability of your work, a straightforward grammar, spelling, and punctuation check may be all you need. In this case, it is advisable to work with a proofreader rather than an editor.
A good rule of thumb that can help you decide whether to use proofreading or editing services relates to the point in the drafting process that you are at. If you are on the final draft of your document, then proofreading is the best choice. If you are on an earlier draft, editing is likely to be the right option.
Where to go now?
Once you’ve decided on a proofreading or editing service, you are faced with the challenge of deciding between all of the available companies and freelancers that are offering their time and skills. This can be complex, but it is always worth looking for some online reviews or advice from friends to help you make your decision and find the most qualified person to work with and check out their work, request a sample.
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