Common Errors
In these posts, we look at common errors that proofreaders and editors may encounter in their work. This will include issues related to spelling, grammar, punctuation, and other aspects of writing.
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Proofreading Tips: Can You Start a Sentence with a Conjunction?
Proofreading Tips: Can You Start a Sentence with a Conjunction?
Nov 21, 2021
As a proofreader, you need to be able to spot and fix grammatical errors. You may have been taught that starting a sentence with a conjunction is one of these errors, but this is in fact a common grammar myth! In this post, we’ll explain what a coordinating conjunction is and why you probably don’t […]
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Proofreading Tips: What to Do with Dangling and Misplaced Modifiers
Proofreading Tips: What to Do with Dangling and Misplaced Modifiers
Nov 14, 2021
Dangling and misplaced modifiers are common grammar mistakes. In this post, we’ll talk you through how to spot and correct these errors as a proofreader. What Is a Modifier? In grammatical terms, a modifier is a word, phrase, or clause that describes, clarifies, or alters) another word or phrase within a sentence. A modifier might […]
Proofreading Tips: What to Do With Scare Quotes
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A Proofreader’s Guide to Straight and Curly Quotes
Oct 28, 2021
Quotation marks may seem simple, but if you’ve got a keen eye as all good proofreaders should you might notice some variety in these little symbols. In fact, quotes come in two distinct styles: straight and curly (or ). In this post, then, we’ll explain: The difference between straight and curly quotes. How to toggle […]
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Proofreading Tips: What to Do With Comma Splices
Sep 23, 2021
A good proofreader will know how to spot and correct common punctuation errors. One of the most common of these is the comma splice. But what exactly are comma splices, and how can you fix them? Read on to find out more. What Are Comma Splices? A comma splice is what happens when two independent […]
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5 Commonly Confused Words to Look Out for While Proofreading
Aug 28, 2021
If you’re a proofreader, you’ll most likely find it easy to spot common spelling mistakes and typos. But some words might still catch you out from time to time. In this post, then, we’re looking at five commonly confused words that proofreaders should keep an eye out for. Becoming A Proofreader Have you got an […]
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Editing Tips: What to Do with Variant Spellings
Jul 08, 2021
If you want to pursue a career in proofreading, sooner or later you will encounter words that have variant spellings . In this post, then, we’re going to look at some common types of variant spellings and how to proofread them. Becoming A Proofreader If you would like to brush up on the basics of […]
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Proofreading Tips: Punctuation in MHRA Style
Jul 01, 2021
The MHRA Style Guide is often used in the humanities, especially in the UK. But what does a proofreader need to know when working on a document that follows this style? In this post, we will look at the rules for punctuation in MHRA style, including: General guidelines about the overall punctuation conventions in MHRA […]
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5 Easy-to-Miss Apostrophe Errors
Jun 10, 2021
A good proofreader will always check for apostrophe errors. And, as a proofreader, you should know the basics of how this punctuation mark works already. However, some apostrophe errors are easier to miss! Five easy-to-miss errors to look out for include: Exceptions to the rules about possessives and words that end in Certain proper nouns […]
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Editing Tips: Does a Comma Indicate a Pause?
Editing Tips: Does a Comma Indicate a Pause?
May 13, 2021
One of the first things most people learn about commas is that they indicate a pause. And most writers add a comma wherever they would also pause in speech. When proofreading, though, you need to be more discerning. So, when does a comma indicate a pause? And what else do you need to know as […]
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Proofreading Tips: Prepositions in Title Case
Proofreading Tips: Prepositions in Title Case
May 02, 2021
In title case – a common approach to styling titles and headings – the first letters of the main words in a title are prepositions in titles. Title Case and Prepositions If you want to know more, sign up for a free trial of the course today!