Formatting

In these posts, we look at issues related to formatting a document that you may encounter as a proofreader. Our aim is for this to include tips on a range of programs and file types, helping you to format everything from Microsoft Word documents to PDFs. We will also look at how to use various software packages that are useful for editors and proofreaders.

  • Editing Tips: Widows and Orphans Explained

    Editing Tips: Widows and Orphans Explained

    Nov 16, 2023

    • Formatting
    • Proofreading Tips

    As a proofreader, if you work with a publisher, they might ask you to look out for widows and orphans in a typeset text. But this can be tricky, as not everyone uses these words in the same way! In this post, then, we’ll explain the basics, including: Read on below to find out what […]

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  • How and When to Use Sic in a Quotation

    How and When to Use Sic in a Quotation

    Oct 26, 2023

    • Academic Editing
    • Editing Tips
    • Formatting
    • Proofreading Tips
    • Style

    When proofreading, you might see the term sic used in a quotation. However, many people misuse this term or use it when there is an alternative available. As such, proofreaders and editors should make sure they know how and when to use this term in a quotation. In this blog post, we explore: What sic […]

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How to Capitalize Titles

  • 5 of the Best Microsoft Word Courses

    Sep 06, 2023

    • Formatting
    • Freelance Software and Tools
    • Freelance Tips
    • Proofreading Software and Tools

    Microsoft Word is one of the most popular word processing software programs available and is widely used in offices across the world. Online courses can be an effective and time-efficient way to develop your Microsoft Word skills and further your professional development. But with so many options, how do you decide which one is right […]

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  • How to Choose a Font for Your Document

    Jul 22, 2023

    • Editing Tips
    • Formatting
    • Proofreading Tips

    You’ve put time and effort into crafting a piece of writing, and now it’s time to select a font style as the finishing touch. But with so many options, how do you know which one to pick? Whether you’re working on a creative writing project or a professional resume, you should always choose a font […]

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  • What Is a Macro in Microsoft Word?

    Jul 15, 2023

    • Editing Tips
    • Formatting
    • Proofreading Software and Tools
    • Proofreading Tips

    When it comes to Microsoft Word, you might be an expert in things like font styles, bullet lists, and headings – but what about recording macros? Although macros are a little more advanced than some of Word’s other formatting tools, once you get the hang of them, they can be very useful and save you […]

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  • How to Offer Formatting Services as a Proofreader or Editor

    Jul 05, 2023

    • Finding Work
    • Formatting
    • Freelance Tips
    • Skills and Experience

    Offering formatting services can be an opportunity for you, a proofreader or editor, to expand your client base and increase your business earnings. However, before offering these services, you’ll want to ensure that you’re proficient in basic or advanced formatting tasks so you can accurately scope and promote your services and deliver a quality product. […]

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  • What’s the Difference Between Proofreading and Formatting?

    Jul 03, 2023

    • Formatting
    • Proofreading Tips

    As a proofreader, you may encounter clients that request both proofreading and formatting services. These could be businesses that want their reports formatted in line with company standards, or graduate students who need their theses or dissertations formatted according to a particular academic style guide. But as a proofreader, should you provide formatting services? The […]

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  • How to Edit Documents and Text for Accessibility

    How to Edit Documents and Text for Accessibility

    Jan 14, 2023

    • Editing Tips
    • Formatting

    As an editor, you may be tasked with editing a document to improve accessibility. But what exactly does this involve? In this post, we’ll take you through what accessibility means in writing and our top tips for editing text with accessibility in mind. What Is Accessibility in Writing? Accessibility is the process of making sure […]

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  • What Is an Epigraph? (And How to Format One)

    What Is an Epigraph? (And How to Format One)

    Jan 02, 2023

    • Creative Writing
    • Editing Tips
    • Formatting

    When editing novels and other types of books, you may come across an epigraph or two. But what exactly is an epigraph, and how should you approach them as an editor? We’ll explain everything you must know about these literary devices, including the different ways to format them. What’s an Epigraph? An epigraph is a […]

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  • A Complete Guide to Formatting Tools in Microsoft Word

    A Complete Guide to Formatting Tools in Microsoft Word

    Dec 04, 2022

    • Formatting
    • Proofreading Software and Tools
    • Proofreading Tips

    Microsoft Word is a popular type of word processing software with a wide variety of features. As a freelance proofreader, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with its tools, as you’ll likely use them as part of your workflow.  While proofreading doesn’t always include formatting, many proofreaders offer it as an additional service. Microsoft […]

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