Editing Versus Proofreading

Editing Versus Proofreading

What Does Editing Entail?

“Editing” describes a series of tasks performed by an experienced editor who makes changes to improve the quality of content, especially in the use of punctuation, language, and context. Edited work reads better thanks to its clear expression and consistent writing style.

Editing also includes “proofreading” to eliminate language, spelling, and grammar errors. In other words, editing ensures that your writing clearly conveys your ideas, even if the rules of English do not come naturally to you.

Quality writing is paramount to the success of your project, such as selling copies of a book, being published in a journal, or making a presentation to land a big client. Higher writing standards make your thoughts and expressions more persuasive, and readers will perceive your content as more authoritative. No matter how impressive your idea is or how moving your content is, if your writing is not error-proof, fluent, and consistent, it will not make the impact that it should.

In addition to enhancing your writing style, editing ensures that all editorial conventions are met. For instance, academic writing requires specific formatting and reference styles, and fiction and nonfiction writing has its own literary guidelines.

You might assume that eliminating inconsistencies is not a demanding job and that a computer program could do it. However, a human editor is far more professional and accomplished than any computer program. An editor understands the nuances of a particular language, has experience in eliminating common errors, is trained to be methodical, and can identify and correct various inconsistencies that plague a written document.

What Does Proofreading Entail?

Any writing that is intended for publication – a book, an article, a PDF, a business document, educational content – must clearly convey its message to the audience. Clear writing is free of punctuation, grammar, and spelling, errors and other inconsistencies that could undermine the message’s impact and the author’s credibility.

When Should You Opt for Proofreading?

Authors whose books are professionally edited usually receive the added benefit of a final proofread before publication. Some authors may balk at the idea of paying for this service, but even a few errors can leave readers with a bad impression. Without being proofread, the material cannot reach its full potential. Errors greatly diminish the author’s work.

Academics or students who have self-edited their work may only need a light proofread to eliminate minor errors. When an author ready to publish, proofreading ensures that inconsistencies are resolved and that the end product is free of distracting mistakes.

 How Can MPS Help?

MPS Limited has a dedicated team of professional editors and proofreaders who have years of experience and are ready to work with you to prepare your content for publication. Our proofreaders and editors can help you resolve any issues related to formatting, inconsistencies, typing errors, language enhancement, or other areas of concern.

Contact us for all your editing and proofreading needs and to learn more about our services across various verticals.