Proofing for Printing
Proofing Checklist
Before you sign-off on your proof, make sure that you have checked all the relevant boxes below.
| ___ | Printed copy of the proof* – We know from experience that the best way to proof something is when it is printed! |
| ___ | Spelling and grammar – Are all names spelled correctly? Watch out for words spell check won’t catch, such as it’s/its, their/there, your/you’re, were/where, then/than, and to/too. |
| ___ | Images – Are all images in the correct place and in the correct size? Do images appear fuzzy? Do all images have the correct captions? |
| ___ | Fonts - Are all fonts correct and appropriate in size? Is all text aligned properly? |
| ___ | Duplication – Check for two identical words or numbers that are next to each other. |
| ___ | Punctuation – Is it correct and consistent throughout? Are there any missing characters or broken type? |
| ___ | Contact details – Make sure contact names, telephone, fax numbers, email and web addresses are correct and formatted properly. |
| ___ | Logo – Is it the correct version, as well as consistency of size and positioning? |
| ___ | General layout and color/imagery* – Do you approve any final retouching? |
| ___ | Pagination – Is the document’s size, page numbering and order correct? |
| ___ | Have one or more people read the proof and completed the checklist? |
Proofing Tips
- Read it out loud and also silently.
- Read it backwards to focus on the spelling of words.
- Use a blank sheet of paper to cover the material not yet proofed.
- Do not proof for every type of mistake at once—do one proof for spelling, another for missing/additional spaces, consistency of word usage, font sizes, etc.
- Keep a list of your most common errors (or of the writers you are proofing) and proof for those on separate "trips."
- Give a copy of the document to another person and keep a copy for yourself. Take turns reading it out loud to each other. While one of you reads, the other one follows along to catch any errors and awkward- sounding phrases. This method also works well when proofing numbers and codes.
- First, proof the body of the text. Then go back and proof the headings. Headings are prone to error because copy editors often don't focus on them.
- Double check fonts that are unusual (italic, bold, or otherwise different).
Got Questions?
We're here to help. Contact us if you have questions.
806.743.2016