Proofreading service
What is proofreading?
The purpose of proofreading is to check the writing for errors and ensure the use of language, style and form is consistent throughout. This is usually one of the final stages of the writing process.
A proofread of your written copy can include any or all of the following, as required (using your style guide if you have one):
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Spelling
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Grammar
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Punctuation
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Formatting (such as headings, bullet points, section breaks)
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Sense-checks
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Continuity checks
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Glossary, hyperlinks and/or references (the addition or checking of)
How will you proofread my work?
I offer proofreading for a wide range of documents, from funding bids and reports to blogs and poetry.
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​I can make any suggestions in your document using tracked changes and/or comments as you prefer, which you can then approve or decline, or we can discuss an alternative way if appropriate.
What experience do you have in proofreading?
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Associate Proofreader on inspection reports for HMICFRS (His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary, Fire and Rescue Services).
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Proofreader of e-learning programmes at BYG Systems Ltd.
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Copywriter and proofreader of newsletters, web copy and publicity materials at social enterprise Communities Inc.
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Proofreader of science fiction for Black Library, part of Games Workshop.
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Proofreader of board games rules for publisher The Dark Imp.
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Proofreader and/or contributing editor of several anthologies of poetry, fiction and memoir.
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Script Assistant proofreading scripts and storylines for 'Hollyoaks' and 'Brookside' at Mersey TV (Now Lime Pictures).
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Copywriter (including proofreading and editing) of newsletters, blogs, web copy and reports for the DDPO (D/deaf and disabled people's organisation) Inclusion Barnet.
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Plus writing, editing and proofreading copy for several law firms, charities, and organisations in the arts.
What relevant qualifications do you have?
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MA in Creative Writing (distinction) including poetry, fiction and travel memoir.​
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- CELTA qualification (Cambridge Certificate in English Language Teaching for Adults) and experience teaching EFL and ESOL in the UK.
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BA (hons) degree in Drama including playwriting and comedy writing.
How does your service differ for proofreading poetry?
I also offer editing and proofreading services for poetry.
Some aspects of the editing process are the same for poetry as they are for other forms of writing (see above) but there also other aspects to consider for this form.
These can include, as required, suggestions relating to:
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theme, form, metaphor, rhythm, rhyme, title and line order.
For poetry anthologies suggestions can include:
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order of the creative pieces, foreword, dedications and author bios etc.
For support with promoting a poetry pamphlet/chapbook, collection or anthology, see my copywriting services page.
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For details of my experience in poetry writing, see my poetry page.
Do you also offer an editing service?
Yes, I offer an editing service as well, so you can have your work edited and then proofread if you prefer.
Why choose me?
1. Extensive experience
With extensive experience in proofreading a variety of documents, plus a masters degree in creative writing, I am ideally placed to help you present your writing clearly and to a professional standard.
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I have also taught English as a foreign language and achieved the CELTA qualification (Cambridge Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults), so I know what to look for when it comes to grammar, spelling and punctuation too.​​​​​​​​​
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2. Flexibility to meet your needs
Proofreading, editing and copywriting are team efforts.
I've worked with many different organisations and individuals, each with their own priorities and schedules, so I am used to being flexible to meet each one's needs. This includes how and when you would like me to send queries and update you on my progress with the project.
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3. The skills to ensure your message is clear
As I have extensive experience in proofreading in a variety of forms, I am well-practised in conveying a clear message to a specific audience.
Errors in a piece of writing can have a disastrous effect. Minor errors might detract from your message but major ones can give the impression that you are unprofessional or incapable. I'll work with you to identify and resolve any proofreading errors, so that nothing detracts from your writing and your message is clear.​
Testimonials
"Excellent editing and proofing of reports [...] A huge thank you for your enthusiasm and engagement with the work."
"Jo has incredible attention to detail. I always feel reassured when I know she's proofread my copy.
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She makes sure all errors are addressed constructively; her feedback is detailed and contains easy to implement solutions."
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"I've been tempted in the past to do my own proofreading and it's always been a mistake. It doesn't matter how many times I've been through text myself, I still miss things.
I wish I'd used Jo from the start. She has a keen eye, fabulous command of the English language and great attention to detail."
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"Jo has a keen eye for detail. Her meticulousness in proofreading and editing ensures all our written content is polished and error-free."