If you think your document is ready for public consumption, then proofreading is the service for you. It comprises a basic check for typographical, spelling and layout errors plus a general read to see if it actually makes sense.

You can send a hardcopy draft in the post or email your work to me. Proofs are marked up using the British Standard symbols and are either scanned and emailed as pdf files or posted back.

Accompanying notes can be included on request.

If you think your text may need a more thorough going through including some rewriting, then you probably need the copy-editing service.

Tips for better proofreading

Read your copy twice. Once for the sense of it and again slowly to catch the errors. If you find yourself reading too fast, try reading it backwards.

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Concentrate. Don't be distracted by the message of the text – you are looking for the errors.

Don't edit at this stage. Only if there is something obviously wrong should it be queried.

Check details and statistics. Are dates consistent? Do references tally?

Use standard proofreading marks – that way your message to the typesetter is not ambiguous.

Don't proof your own work – you know what you meant to say and your brain will correct the errors.

If in doubt, employ a professional.