Proofreading Tips

Whether you’re just getting started or are an experienced proofreader, there’s always something new to learn. That’s where our blogs come in! We've got expert advice on spelling, grammar, punctuation, referencing, proofreading different types of writing (from creative to business and academic), and much more!

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    When to Use a Comma with So

    When to Use a Comma with So

    Last Updated Jan 10, 2024

    • Grammar
    • Proofreading Tips
    • Punctuation

    Have you ever been stuck on whether to use a comma with so? If yes, you’re not alone! So is a tiny word that can lead to major comma confusion – but we’re here to help! In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about when to use a comma with so, including […]

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    What Is the Difference Between an Acronym and an Initialism?

    What Is the Difference Between an Acronym and an Initialism?

    Last Updated Nov 30, 2023

    • Common Errors
    • Grammar
    • Proofreading Tips
    • Punctuation

    Do you know the difference between an acronym and an initialism? They are both types of abbreviations, and both terms refer to shortened forms made up of a set of capitalized letters (rather than a shortened word, such as Dr.). However, they have different meanings and work in different ways. To help you nail down […]

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How to Write a Style Sheet for Proofreading or Copy Editing

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    What Are Proofreading Marks? A Beginner's Guide

    Last Updated Nov 23, 2023

    • Proofreading Resources
    • Proofreading Tips

    If you’re considering a career as a proofreader or editor, you should be aware of proofreading marks. Although most proofreading and editing is now done via a computer in a program like Microsoft Word, you may need to use proofreading marks if a client wants you to work on paper. In this blog post, we […]

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    Proofreading Resources: Online Dictionaries

    Last Updated Nov 21, 2023

    • Proofreading Resources
    • Proofreading Tips

    Online dictionaries are an essential tool for proofreaders and editors. As a proofreader, you’re probably very proud of your vocabulary – but we all need to look up words now and then! To save yourself some time, it pays to bookmark a few online dictionaries. But which are the best online dictionaries for proofreaders? Keep […]

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    Editing Tips: Widows and Orphans Explained

    Last Updated 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 to Proofread Resumes and CVs

    Last Updated Nov 14, 2023

    • Business Writing
    • Proofreading Tips
    • Style

    As a freelance proofreader, you may be asked to check resumes and CVs. These documents come in many types, so it is worth knowing how they work so you can proofread them effectively.  In this blog post we’re going to explain: The difference between a resume and a CV The three most common types of […]

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    How Long Should a Sentence Be?

    Last Updated Nov 10, 2023

    • Proofreading Tips

    Have you ever wondered how long a sentence should be? Sentence length plays a crucial role in conveying a message effectively. Finding the right balance between conciseness and detail can make or break your content. As a proofreader or editor, you may need to support your clients in adjusting the length of their sentences. In […]

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    A Guide to Citing Shakespeare in Academic Writing

    Last Updated Nov 09, 2023

    • Academic Writing
    • Proofreading Tips
    • Referencing and Citations
    • Style

    Are you confident when it comes to citing Shakespeare? Shakespeare’s plays are so influential that many style guides have special rules for citing them. As a proofreader, you’ll need to look out for citations like these when working on academic writing and make sure they have been added correctly.  If you’re not sure how to […]

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    How to Use Google Ngram Viewer While Proofreading

    How to Use Google Ngram Viewer While Proofreading

    Last Updated Nov 07, 2023

    • Proofreading Software and Tools
    • Proofreading Tips
    • Vocabulary Tips

    Google offers many tools that a proofreader or editor can use. One of the most underappreciated is the Google Books Ngram Viewer, which you can use to see how common certain words are. So, how does the Ngram Viewer work? And how can you use it while proofreading and editing? What Is an N-gram? An […]

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    What's the Difference Between Active and Passive Voice?

    What's the Difference Between Active and Passive Voice?

    Last Updated Nov 05, 2023

    • Editing Tips
    • Grammar
    • Proofreading Tips

    Do you know the difference between active and passive voice? Don’t worry if you don’t! It’s an area that’s often misunderstood or overlooked, especially by those who are new to proofreading. But understanding the effect and purpose of both the active and the passive voice is valuable for proofreaders and editors. By recognizing the distinction […]

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