
View the course lessons.
Access the two handouts attached to this lesson from the right-side resources, and try another browser if the file names don’t download correctly.
Yes, proofreading is important!
Master proofreading as the final stage of writing, catching spelling, punctuation, and format errors before print, and distinguish it from copy editing in professional workflows.
Do you have the aptitude for proofreading? Jump right in! Test your current skill level with this printable pre-test that includes the answer sheet.
How good is your grammar?
Apply personal proofreading tips: take short breaks on long projects, exercise to stay alert, and eat light meals. Enlist a partner, rest your eyes, and switch activities to stay motivated.
Find all the simple errors in this sample email.
Read aloud to catch errors, proof from a printed, double-spaced copy, increase font size for easier viewing, and enlist a partner for high-stakes documents; rely on dictionaries and grammar guides.
Proofreading and copy editing are slightly different.
Directions: Find the simple errors in this sample agenda.
Download the video lecture slides.
More basic proofreading marks, in addition to those in the video.
For more details on how to use proofreading marks, watch this helpful YouTube video.
For more details on how to use proofreading marks, watch this helpful YouTube video.
Learn essential capitalization rules for business writing.
The numbers rules in this class reflect the AP & Gregg Manual for popular news writing and more formal business writing. Options for both might appear on the same screen. Note this clarification to distinguish between the two. But, remember, you need to always refer to a current style guide for specific numbers rules.
General tips about numbers and style guides.
Learn when to use numerals for numbers ten and above. Apply numerals to millions or billions, fractions with whole numbers, units of measure, dates, and long percentages or decimals.
Click through the slide lectures hosted at the external links below to absorb the information from the videos at your own pace.
Download & print the exercise attached to this video as a resource.
Develop a practical proofreading checklist to identify and fix common errors, including grammar, punctuation, mechanics, dates, numbers, names, and inconsistent formatting.
Download the PDF lecture notes.
Master AP Stylebook basics by using the AP Stylebook app to search for academic titles, degrees, and Ph.D. formatting, whether online or in print.
Proofreading Power Basics is a well-regarded online class that offers practical application with hands-on exercises and quizzes to master the fundamentals of proofreading. This is an introduction to proofreading fundamentals for people with keen grammar and writing skills who want an extra skill challenge, particularly teachers, practicing freelance writers or editors who want to expand their services.
Proofreading is a highly marketable skill that makes for a great side-hustle or second income. As more people write a variety of content across numerous industries, opportunities abound for professionals with above average language skills to bankroll their knack for words into a profitable home-based business.
Now more than ever before, the stage is set for good writers, editors, proofreaders and teachers to sharpen their skills and promote their services. The field of freelance proofreading is wide open with potential clients everywhere. For the curious and the determined, this online proofreading course answers the questions, "What is proofreading," and “What do proofreaders do?” From defining the job of proofreader to setting up a freelance proofreading business, this proofreading course clearly outlines what it takes to become an effective proofreader.
Before You Enroll: You must at least have intermediate grammar skills to successfully complete this course. You must already be a pretty good writer in order to catch mistakes.
Please note, this class will not qualify you to launch a proofreading business, or certify you as a proofreader. Your certificate simply means that you have completed all of the lessons.
NO JOB LEADS! Taking this class will NOT guarantee any kind of full-time or part-time employment. No job leads or client leads are provided.
GRAMMAR NOTE: This class is taught by an American English instructor who focuses on American grammar, American spelling, and American usage rules, not UK English; (there are differences in spelling and usage).