First-pass proofing happens after a book has already been edited, designed, and set into format as it will appear when it is a bound book; then printed out on paper as page proofs. The thorough proofing I give this set of proofs checks for correct and consistent spelling, cross references (for example, that “see chapter 3 on native plants” refers to right chapter), correct and consistent spelling of proper names, and consistent referencing to subject matter within the book. I also check against design specs, including spacing around headings, between lines, styles of headings, fonts, captions, etc., and overall layout consistency. I check that the page numbers listed in the Table of Contents match the text, and I check all running heads and design elements that occur repeatedly.

 

I prefer to proofread from a printout, which I can arrange through a local printer from your electronic files. I use standard proofreader’s symbols, which I am happy to write out for my self-published author friends. References available upon request.