Proofreading

At the end of the course, you will be able to do the following:

• Define proofreading and describe the proofreader’s main responsibilities
• Describe the place of proofreading within the publishing process
• Define the key publishing, printing and electronic media terms that proofreaders encounter
• List and describe the main types of errors that a proofreader is responsible for correcting
• List and describe some of the recommended tools and resources that proofreaders use to do their work effectively
• Use proofreading symbols to mark a hard-copy proof
• Use Adobe Acrobat editing tools and stamps to mark an electronic proof
• Describe the elements of a methodical proofreading approach
• Explain what a proofreading checklist is and why this tool is important when proofreading
• Explain what an editorial style sheet is and why this tool is important when proofreading
• Judge when queries are necessary and know how to make queries about a proof
• Determine the scope and expectations for a proofreading project
• Proofread the textual and visual components of a document

Prepare to spend 6–10 hours per week on coursework, including:

• Readings
• Online discussions
• Exercises
• Feedback on assignments

No textbook is required. We will provide all course materials online.

Recommended reading:

The Chicago Manual of Style, 17th Edition. University of Chicago Press, 2017. ISBN 978-0226287058

Once you begin the course you’ll be sent SFU library access information for this text. Alternatively, you may wish to access a 30-day free trial of the online version of Chicago Manual of Style.

This course requires:

• A printer to print the practice exercises and assignments
• Ability to scan completed assignment pages and upload as a single document to the online course site
• High-speed internet access
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Microsoft Word (2010 or newer)