What is a Proofreader? Definition, Duties, and Skills Required

Even if you've never heard of a proofreader, you've probably heard of the term proofreader, right?

Indeed, the main task of a proofreader is proofreading, namely reading and checking text so that there are no spelling errors. In addition, proofreaders have other duties and responsibilities.

If curious, read our explanation below.

What is Proofreader?

Proofreader is one of the professions needed to publish manuscripts. The proofreader is responsible for editing and correcting errors in the manuscript prior to publication.

Usually this profession is in great demand in publishers, and proofreaders are still under the supervision of editors.

But in Indonesia, this profession is more often referred to as proofreading of manuscripts because their main job is to check for typos.

Proofreader Task

Since proofreading is an important profession, it is clear that the job is not haphazard. You will understand more about this profession if you already know what they do. In the following, the duties of a proofreader will be explained one by one.

1. Correcting the Manuscript

The main task of the proofreader is to correct the manuscript. Is grammar, spelling, punctuation, typos, sentence structure.

2. Editing and Writing

After correcting the manuscript, the proofreader's next task is to edit the manuscript. If there are errors such as grammar, spelling, punctuation and typos, the proofreader is responsible for correcting those errors.

3. Ensuring Reader Convenience

In addition to the tasks above, the proofreader is also responsible for ensuring that readers will enjoy reading the manuscript. Therefore, his job is also to check the logic of writing, so that readers can easily understand it.

Required Skills

Now that we know what a proofreader's job is, let's explain what skills are needed.

1. Writing and Editing

Of course, the most important skills required as a proofreader are writing and editing. Without this expertise, of course it will be difficult to carry out the main task of proofreading a manuscript. In addition, knowledge of punctuation and grammar is essential for the work to be of high quality.

2. Using a Computer

Apart from writing and editing, a proofreader must know how to use a computer. Proofreaders usually use word processing software such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs to complete their work.

3. Detail Oriented

Usually, a proofreader is quite a perfectionist and meticulous, so their work really has to be up to a certain standard.

4. Speed ​​Reading

Of course, proofreaders who work in the editing department also have to meet deadlines. Therefore, they must have the ability to read quickly. Although proofreaders read quickly, they are usually careful to spot spelling or grammatical errors.

5. Multitask

Multitasking skills are also very necessary in this profession. Because apart from editing the manuscript, the proofreader also had to check the facts.

So that's an explanation about the proofreader. From the summary above, it can be concluded that proofreading is a profession that requires high precision, because spelling, grammar and facts of manuscripts must be corrected. Are you interested in this profession?