The purpose of a Copy Editor/Proofreader is to edit and proof the content in a document or digital file. While the two jobs are often combined, each role has distinct responsibilities: A Copy Editor focuses on style consistency, fact-checking, spelling, sentence structure, and clarity, and may also write headlines and subheads. A Proofreader examines the final draft—after it has been edited—for mistakes or inconsistencies in spelling, punctuation, and word usage, and any errors that may have happened between the original design and the final version.
What does a Copy Editor/Proofreader do, typically?
Focuses on both the details and the big picture
A Copy Editor or Proofreader is considerate of the overall intent and design of the content in a document or digital file, and, at the same time, is meticulous about the details, especially identifying inconsistencies and errors in grammar, spelling, syntax, and punctuation
Has intimate knowledge of style guides and use of language
This type of specialist is familiar with various style guides, and both formal and informal use of language
Collaborates with writers and designers
A Copy Editor/Proofreader provides direction and feedback to writers and designers to ensure final content is aligned with business goals
Copy Editors/Proofreaders are not:
Spell Checkers
Copy Editor/Proofreaders edit and proof copy to improve its readability by correcting errors and adding clarity. This often includes fixing spelling mistakes, but in a more sophisticated way than the spell checker on your computer.
Writers
Copy Editor/Proofreaders revise content to improve accuracy and clarity. A Writer creates content from scratch.
Important metrics for a Copy Editor/Proofreader
The most basic metric for measuring the work of a Copy Editor/Proofreader is finding an uncorrected error after something is published. Additional metrics are:
- increased discovery
- user engagement (how long did the reader stay on the page)
- increased conversion
- customer feedback
- satisfied clients
