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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What Are Proofreading Marks? A Beginner's Guide
What Are Proofreading Marks? A Beginner's Guide
Published Nov 23, 2023
Last Updated Nov 20, 2024If 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
Proofreading Resources: Online Dictionaries
Published Nov 21, 2023
Last Updated Nov 21, 2024Online 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 […]
Editing Tips: Widows and Orphans Explained
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How to Proofread Resumes and CVs
Published Nov 14, 2023
Last Updated Jun 24, 2024As 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?
Published Nov 10, 2023
Last Updated Dec 15, 2023Have 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
Published Nov 09, 2023
Last Updated Nov 26, 2024Are 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
Published Nov 07, 2023
Last Updated Jan 02, 2025Google 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?
Published Nov 05, 2023
Last Updated May 27, 2025Do 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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Halloween or Hallowe’en?
Published Oct 31, 2023
Boo! Grab your masks, pumpkins, and bowls of candy. It’s that time of the year again! Halloween is celebrated on October 31 in the US and other parts of the world. Though you’re probably familiar with the spelling Halloween, you might have come across an alternative spelling: Hallowe’en. In this post, we’ll talk about where […]
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How and When to Use Sic in a Quotation
How and When to Use Sic in a Quotation
Published Oct 26, 2023
Last Updated Sep 03, 2025Have you ever seen the term sic used in a quotation and wondered what it meant? Or perhaps you’ve thought about whether you are using it correctly in your writing? Many people misuse this term or use it when there’s a more suitable alternative. This is why proofreaders and editors should make sure they know […]
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Word Confusion: Biennial vs. Biannual
Word Confusion: Biennial vs. Biannual
Published Oct 19, 2023
Last Updated Sep 25, 2025Do you know when to use biennial vs. biannual? While the two words look and sound similar, there is a meaningful difference. Some similar words are so familiar and so different in meaning that, should a client muddle them up, you will notice them right away. For instance, if an essay refers to Darwin’s theory […]