One common question we get asked all the time is “How do I know if proofreading is for me?”

To be honest, we can’t answer that question for you. We can’t know what kind of proofreading services you can offer, how good you will be at spotting typos in a piece of writing, or if you have a strong command of the English language. Being a successful proofreader is all about your passions, skills, and determination. 

So how do you decide if you have what it takes to be a proofreader?

You might be a proofreader if you are your family’s go-to resource for grammar and spelling questions. There are usually some telltale signs that you might want to become a proofreader. Excellent proofreaders often possess many of the same qualities. Chances are if you have almost all of these qualities, you’ll thrive as a proofreader.

Keep reading to find out what qualities successful proofreaders have in common.

The Essential Proofreader Skills

Proofreading is a dream job if you’re all about the little details, love catching tiny mistakes, and get a kick out of making things just right. But here’s the thing—it’s not just about spotting typos.

Proofreading is a total game-changer! Fun fact: 59% of online readers say typos make them lose trust in the content. Crazy, right? That’s how important your writing skills are!

So, if you’re the type of person who notices every little mistake in a text or feels the urge to correct a misplaced apostrophe (it’s okay, we get it), you’re already halfway there. Stick around—this guide will show you how to take those instincts and turn them into a rewarding career. 

1. Attention to detail

Proofreading is something that some people are innately good at, so it’s a natural choice when word nerds are searching for ways to make money working from home. If you enjoy spotting punctuation errors or fancy yourself an “eagle-eyed pro”, you may get hooked on finding errors and polishing client projects.  

Eagle eyes. You’ve probably heard us talking about eagle eyes before. Excellent proofreaders must be able to spot errors a mile off. Grammatical errors need to jump off the page at you.

Have you ever been tempted to call business owners to let them know what punctuation faux pas they’re committing? Does spotting a misplaced comma on a menu or a misspelled word on a billboard make your inner perfectionist cringe? Do you find yourself wondering why businesses didn’t hire someone to proofread their content before publishing it? 

If these scenarios sound familiar, then you’re already primed to be a proofreader.

A part of a proofreader’s job means loving the nitty-gritty. It’s not about skimming through text; it’s about diving deep, ensuring every word and all those punctuation marks are just right. Proofreaders are the unsung heroes behind flawless content, making business owners, authors, and clients look like rock stars.

But if you’re more of a “big picture” person who doesn’t enjoy focusing on fine details, that’s okay too! Proofreading isn’t for everyone. But for those who love the art of precision, it’s an incredibly rewarding way to make an impact while working from home. And don’t worry, there are plenty of other work-at-home job opportunities, like online proofreaders, out there. 

2. Strong Language and Grammar Command

You won’t get far as a proofreader if you don’t have an above-average grasp of spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

Excellent proofreaders understand the difference between there, they’re, and their. They know when you should use “less” rather than “fewer.” And they don’t hang on to outdated or just plain wrong grammar myths.

If you need a brush up on your grammar skills, you can check out our Look Better in Writing ebook or our favorite grammar course, Grammar Lion. Or better yet, try out Grammarly for some extra help.

So, you don’t need to be a human dictionary, but a strong grasp of grammar is essential to become a professional proofreader. Grammatical errors confuse readers, mess up the flow of the text, and make your written work look unpolished. A good proofreader knows how to spot those mistakes or spelling errors and clean them up so the writing flows smoothly.  

Now, it’s not just about knowing when to use “their” vs. “there” or “your” vs. “you’re” (although those are super important, too). It’s about understanding the grammar rules and knowing when to bend them for style purposes. 

The more you practice, the sharper your grammar skills will become. If you’re serious about thriving as a proofreader, why not take it up a notch with a proofreading course? It’s a great way to refine your editing skills and spot errors like a pro in no time! 

3. Willingness to Learn

You don’t have to know everything right off the bat. Grammar, spelling, and familiarity with style guides can be learned. But you have to care about learning it. You have to be willing to research what you don’t know – whether that’s a grammar rule you’re not sure of or upgrading your computer skills.

The key is knowing an error when you see one, or at the very least knowing it could be an error and having the sense to stop and check.

A good proofreader doesn’t assume that they know everything just because they have a strong grasp of English in high school. They understand that the English language changes over time, and they’re aware they may have picked up some bad habits or misinformation over time.

An excellent proofreader will be willing to invest in themselves to make sure that they’re providing the highest quality service they can provide to their clients. They understand the importance of taking a proofreading course to hone their skills, and they actively use style guides and reference books like the Chicago Manual of Style to check if their gut feelings are correct.

The biggest hindrance to learning is refusing to open up your brain to actually learn.

What’s the purpose of learning? Mastery. Before you can profit from a skill, you must master it. That’s when the confidence comes. What does it mean to master something? It means you can do the thing almost effortlessly.

So, we want to encourage you: No matter how much you know (and we know you *do* know a lot!!), be willing and able to receive new knowledge into your brain.

If you want to learn how you can brush up on your proofreading skills, check out our free Intro to Proofreading workshop!

4. Flexibility and Time Management

Proofreading isn’t always a 9-to-5 job, especially if you’re in the court reporting niche. This type of work can come in waves. When your clients aren’t busy, neither are you. But when they’re busy, you better be ready to work.

Proofreaders make more depending on the season and how many clients they have and that’s ok. Being able to adjust based on a variable income is essential to being a freelance proofreader. 

Most transcript proofreading work comes in in the evenings, and it will take you longer than an hour to complete. General proofreading tends to be less fast-paced, but your clients won’t want to wait weeks for their documents to be returned. They may have deadlines that they need to meet.

You’ll need to be willing to communicate with your clients to make sure the timeline works well for both of you.

Deadlines, last-minute requests, and surprise edits are all part of the proofreading gig. Flexibility is key when it comes to managing the unexpected, and time management is what keeps everything running smoothly. 

Imagine juggling multiple projects – an annual report from one client, a snappy blog post from another, and a marketing flyer that needed to be proofed yesterday. Sound stressful? Not if you’ve got your time management game on point. Need some help? Consider using ClickUp, your guardian angel in time tracking and project management.

Being flexible doesn’t just mean meeting deadlines. It means understanding and adapting to your client’s unique needs. Some want detailed notes on every edit, while others just want you to “fix it.” You might have to switch between a highly formal tone in the morning to a casual, playful style by the afternoon. Mastering these shifts during the writing process, without skipping a beat, is what makes you invaluable.

5. Excellent Communication Skills

Proofreading isn’t a solo job. You’ve got to interact with clients, writers, and sometimes whole teams. Whether it’s explaining your edits, asking for clarification on vague instructions, or suggesting a change to improve clarity, excellent communication skills are essential.

A big part of this is about being clear and concise. You can’t just mark up a document and expect your client to understand your thought process. You need to explain why you made a change or why a particular sentence doesn’t quite work. 

And here’s the kicker: you need to do it diplomatically. Writers can be protective of their work, so a little tact goes a long way. Great written communication isn’t just about avoiding misunderstandings. It’s about building trust and showing that you’re as invested in the project as they are.

Plus, good communication can save you a ton of time. Clear discussions about expectations and deadlines mean fewer revisions and less back-and-forth. It’s all about setting the tone for a productive collaboration and showing your clients that you’re not just a proofreader. You’re a partner they can count on. 

6. Technical Proficiency

Proofreading and editing without tech tools is like navigating a map without GPS. Sure, it’s possible, but why make it harder than it needs to be? Tools like Grammarly, Hemingway Editor, and even built-in spellcheckers are lifesavers, helping you catch common issues quickly so you can focus on the deeper stuff.

But it’s not just about having the tools – it’s about knowing how to use them. You’ll need to master things like tracking changes in Microsoft Word, using comment features in Google Docs, or navigating client-specific platforms. 

Plus, understanding file formats and style templates can save you time and make you look like a total pro. The right tech doesn’t replace your skills; it enhances them, letting you work smarter, not harder. And here’s the bonus: mastering these tools also makes you faster, so you can take on more clients without breaking a sweat.

Oh, and let’s not forget about the fun stuff: learning shortcuts and tricks that save you hours of frustration. With the right tools and skills, you’ll impress your clients and make your life so much easier.

7. Persistence and Dedication

It’s not easy—learning a new skill and starting a business. It comes hand in hand with a lot of self-doubt. Maybe it feels like you’ll never understand how to use a comma properly. Or maybe your business has been up and running for a few months, but you still don’t have any clients.

We can’t let things like these stop us.

Getting outside your comfort zone is the key to getting unstuck.

The only ways to guarantee failure are:

1) Never even try

2) Give up

Getting outside your comfort zone is the key to getting unstuck.

Proofreading is not for the faint of heart. It takes persistence to sit down and go through a 50-page report, line by line, comma by comma. And let’s be honest, some projects are more exciting than others. Not every day will be filled with witty ad copy or thrilling blog posts. Sometimes, you’re working on technical manuals or dry legal documents.

This is where dedication comes in. The ability to push through challenging projects, meet tight deadlines, and still deliver top-notch work sets great proofreaders apart. 

Building a career in this field isn’t about instant success; it’s about showing up consistently and proving your value over time. If you’re passionate about getting things right, this persistence will pay off in spades. Plus, every project you complete – no matter how dull – helps build your reputation and expertise, which leads to bigger and better opportunities.

And hey, even the toughest jobs teach you something. Maybe it’s a new term, a unique formatting style, or just how to manage your time better. Stick with it, and you’ll keep growing while building a portfolio that proves you can handle anything.

8. Critical Thinking

Proofreading isn’t just about fixing what’s wrong; it’s about making the writing better. This means thinking critically about the content, not just the mechanics. Is the tone consistent? Does the argument make sense? Are the transitions between paragraphs smooth? These are the kinds of questions you’ll need to ask yourself.

Critical thinking also means being able to evaluate when a sentence works – and when it doesn’t. Sometimes, it’s about suggesting a better word choice or rephrasing a clunky sentence. Other times, it’s about realizing that a piece of information is missing altogether. 

You’re not just correcting errors; you’re making sure the overall piece is cohesive, engaging, and effective. It’s like being a puzzle solver—except the puzzle is made of words. And trust us, there’s no better feeling than taking a messy draft and turning it into a polished masterpiece that both you and the client can be proud of.

But here’s the thing: critical thinking is also about knowing when to step back. Not every piece needs to be perfect—it just needs to meet the client’s goals. Balance your perfectionist streak with a practical mindset, and you’ll not only save time but also keep your clients coming back for more.

Additional Tips for Aspiring Proofreaders

Ready to sharpen your proofreading skills and make your mark as a proofreader? Here are a few extra tips to help you stand out and succeed in this detail-driven, word-loving world!

1. Invest in Training

Want to level up your proofreading skills and feel confident tackling even the most challenging projects? Investing in proofreading courses or even a certification is the way to go. 

Whether you’re a complete beginner or someone looking to sharpen your existing skills, the right training can make a world of difference. Not only does it boost your confidence, but it also helps you stand out in a competitive field.

Thankfully, there are plenty of options to explore. For starters, you can check out our general proofreading course, which is tailored to help you build a solid foundation. And if you’re curious about what you can achieve without an English degree, our article on becoming a proofreader without a degree is a must-read.

You’ll also want to dive into courses and books specifically designed to provide practical insights and tips. From general proofreading essentials to specialized training in transcript proofreading, there’s something for everyone. 

2. Use Style Guides

One of the best ways to elevate your proofreading game is by mastering writing style guides like the Chicago Manual of Style or the Associated Press (AP) Stylebook. 

These tools are more than just books—they’re your go-to references for everything from punctuation rules to formatting guidelines. They ensure your work stays consistent, professional, and polished, which clients will absolutely love. If you’re serious about building a professional proofreading career, getting comfortable with these style guides is a smart idea. 

Need to brush up on some technical skills? Check out these proofreading tools and resources to make your work easier and more efficient. Pairing a solid understanding of style guides with the right tools is a surefire way to deliver amazing results.

Sure, style guides can seem a bit overwhelming at first, but with some practice and the right resources, you’ll see how valuable they are. They’re not just about fixing mistakes—they’re all about making sure every piece you proofread hits that gold standard.

3. Practice Makes Perfect

Proofreading isn’t just a skill. It’s an art that you develop with time and dedication. The good news? You don’t need a fancy degree to get started. 

Start small with personal projects, blog posts, or even casual freelance gigs. Each project you complete will sharpen your ability to catch errors and refine your editing instincts. Over time, spotting misspellings, grammar slip-ups, and punctuation mistakes will feel like second nature. 

And don’t stop there – invest in ongoing training through proofreading tests and practice using real-world examples. Ready to dive into more structured learning? Check out proofreading courses and books for a comprehensive approach to specialized skills.

Remember, practice doesn’t just make perfect—it builds confidence, credibility, and a solid foundation for a successful career in proofreading. Keep pushing yourself, and you’ll see incredible results!

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Conclusion

Becoming a professional proofreader is super rewarding, but it takes practice, patience, and a lot of honing your proofreading skills. If you’ve got a keen eye, self-motivation, and a love for grammar, you’re already on the right track. 

Proofreading services are always in demand, so keep improving those skills, take a proofreading course, and don’t be afraid to get started!

Ready to give it a go? Whether you’re polishing up business documents or editing your favorite author’s latest manuscript, there’s a world of proofreading jobs out there waiting for you. Go ahead and get started on your proofreading skills—you’ve got this! 

The post Proofreader Skills You Need to Be Successful appeared first on Proofread Anywhere.

We’re back with our latest rant lesson on punctuation. And today’s victim is… the comma.

Okay, let us start off by saying that commas are HARD. We totally get it! There are just so. many. rules.

Of all the punctuation marks our students learn about and practice using in our proofreading courses, the comma is the one they have the most trouble with.

But the phrase “practice makes perfect” is definitely true when it comes to figuring out how to use a comma. After a while, you’ll start to recognize when it’s needed and when it’s not needed… and then you’ll start to notice all the common comma mistakes on the internet and want to jump out the window!

via Brevity

How to Correctly Use a Comma

We’ll keep this very brief because there’s no way we could cover every single comma rule in one blog post (and we would probably bore you to tears…) Instead, we thought it would be more fun to show you the consequences of when comma usage goes bad. Let’s get started!

Use commas in a list of three or more items

When a conjunction (e.g., and, but, or) joins the last two items in a list of three or more, a comma should precede the conjunction.

Example: I eat sausages, bacon, and eggs for my breakfast every morning.

This is called the Oxford or serial comma, and it’s used to avoid ambiguity (as you’ll see later on).

Use commas between independent clauses joined by a conjunction

When independent clauses are joined by a coordinating conjunction such as and, but, or, etc., a comma usually precedes the conjunction. To be independent, each clause must have a subject and a verb.

Example: We went to the beach, and John went to the zoo.

Bonus tip: The acronym FANBOYS (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) will help you remember which coordinating conjunctions you should be looking out for. (This has to be one of the best acronyms ever!)

Use commas with appositives

A word that is placed in apposition to a noun is normally set off by commas if it is unrestrictive (i.e., it could be removed from the sentence without changing the intended meaning of the sentence).

FYI: An appositive is a noun or noun phrase that follows another noun or noun phrase and that provides an explanation or additional information about the first noun.

Example: Brian, my best friend, loves playing Mario Kart.

“My best friend” is extra information and not essential to the meaning of the sentence.

Use commas with direct address

Use a comma(s) to set off someone’s name (or a word being used in place of someone’s name) when used to address someone directly.

Example: Dude, where’s my car?

These examples are just a really quick snapshot of some comma rules. If you’re in the mood to read up on all the rules, check out this article. And if you’re feeling really nerdy, take our proofreading aptitude test!

So, without further ado, here are five scenarios where this punctuation mark has been used and abused. Let the hilarity commence!

Misuse #1: Missing commas in direct address

One of the most important uses of the comma is that it saves lives! This example is an oldie but a goodie.

Incorrect: Let’s eat Grandma!

Oh no! What did poor Grandma ever do to you?!

Correct: Let’s eat, Grandma!

That’s better. Now you’re just inviting Grandma to dinner and not making her the main course. To avoid a horrific misunderstanding like this, remember that a comma should set off names or words used in direct address.

Unless you want to be known on your street as the family of cannibals, we suggest you make sure you’ve got this one down!

Misuse #2: Not using the Oxford comma

People usually fall into two camps when it comes to the Oxford or series comma. One group thinks it’s unnecessary, and the other group… well, you’ll have to pry it from their cold, dead, and lifeless hands. See what we did there?

We’re a big proponent of the Oxford or series comma.

Rule 6.19 in The Chicago Manual of Style strongly recommends using it as it prevents ambiguity, as does Margie Wakeman Wells in Bad Grammar/Good Punctuation (check out Chapter 25 for more details). Because let’s face it; omitting it can lead to some hilarious sentences! Let’s take a look at an example, shall we?

Incorrect: James got his picture taken with his parents, Mickey Mouse and Pluto.

We’re pretty sure Mickey Mouse and Pluto are not the parents of a human child named James, but we’re willing to be corrected on that!

Correct: James got his picture taken with his parents, Mickey Mouse, and Pluto.

Rule: Items in a series of three or more are normally separated by commas to avoid ambiguity.

If you’d like to get some practice using the Oxford comma, check out this quiz!

Misuse #3: Putting commas and dashes together

This one really gets our goat. We see it ALL THE TIME, and we don’t know why anyone would do it. It makes no sense, people!

Incorrect: Also — and this is important, don’t eat yellow snow.

Correct: Also, and this is important, don’t eat yellow snow.

Correct: Also — and this is important — don’t eat yellow snow.

Sometimes commas come in pairs. If a comma is placed before an element to set it off from the surrounding text (such as “and this is important” in the example above), a second comma is required if the sentence continues beyond the element being set off. You could substitute an em dash in this instance, but you CANNOT mix them with commas!

Pick one and be consistent!

Misuse #4: Creating a comma splice

Comma splices are RAMPANT! We see them on Facebook posts, in text messages, and even on blogs.

Here’s one example:

Incorrect: Sarah went to the library, she got a new grammar book.

Some of you are probably looking at that and thinking, “What’s the problem? There’s nothing wrong with this sentence!” Well, there is! This is an example of a run-on sentence. It’s not a comma’s job to merge two complete sentences unless there’s a coordinating conjunction in the mix.

Let’s try that one again:

Correct: Sarah went to the library, and she got a new grammar book. (See; there’s a coordinating conjunction here too!)

Correct: Sarah went to the library; she got a new grammar book.

Correct: Sarah went to the library. She got a new grammar book.

There are so many correct ways to write this sentence. You can use a semicolon to show that the two sentences are closely linked. You can use a period to show that they’re two complete sentences. But you CANNOT just use a comma all on its own.

(Example of a comma splice, but it’s still funny!)

Misuse #5: Missing commas with appositives

This one could lead to some serious misunderstandings, so watch out!

Incorrect: Rachel’s husband Mike likes to travel.

Wait a minute! How many husbands does Rachel have? Because this sentence implies that there’s more than one!

Correct: Rachel’s husband, Mike, likes to travel.

Much better! Mike can breathe a sigh of relief now that he’s once again the only man for Rachel!

Rule: A word that is placed in apposition to a noun (i.e., providing an explanation or additional info) is normally set off by commas if it is nonrestrictive — that is, if you could remove it without changing the intended meaning of the sentence.

The post Punctuation Pet Peeve: 5 Ways to Misuse a Comma appeared first on Proofread Anywhere.

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Spelling errors, grammar mistakes, punctuation misuse, and an overreliance on technology have all resulted in some pretty serious proofreading disasters. Smarty pants like us see these “fails” and shake our heads wondering, “How did no one notice that?”

Whenever we see grammar mistakes, misplaced punctuation, and spelling snafus online or in our local grocery store, we cringe. But then we remember that’s why we’re here. The world needs proofreaders like us to save them from these eyesores. #jobsecurityforlife

That being said, we do enjoy a good laugh! Here are some of the most hilarious grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes we’ve ever seen. Sit back, relax, and get ready to laugh!

(BTW, have you ever struggled to spell hilarious? It trips me up sometimes!)

Quotation Marks Gone Wrong

So… aliens?

These are classic examples of quotation mark misuse! The unnecessary quotation marks on the sign, we have come to expect. Your guess is as good as mine as to why this punctuation issue almost always happens on signs.

Love the sentiment, but it’s ok to just call them kids.

This is another example of quotation marks making us question the situation. Are they not really kids? Are they like gremlins that change if you get them wet or feed them after midnight?

The unnecessary quotation marks on the magazine cover? Shame on them! Apparently, they had their reasons for using quotation marks, but they probably should have given it a bit more thought.

Don’t Forget the Apostrophes or the Commas

We really hope this isn’t from the English teacher!

We don’t want to bash teachers here because they work very hard. But somebody, whether it’s their parents or their teachers, needs to show kids the right ways to use an apostrophe. This cute book will help young kids learn about punctuation through fun rhyming poems.

This type of apostrophe misuse bothers us so much that we made it rule #1 in our how not to use an apostrophe blog post!

A few commas could have saved so many people from holding their bladders all the way home…

If you want to avoid comma pet peeves, we’ve created the perfect blog post for you!

Homophones Can Be So Tricky!

Homophones are tricky! They’re pronounced alike but have different meanings and spelling.

Mixing up they’re, their, and there is one of the most common homophone mistakes. If you find yourself needing to explain it to someone, here’s the difference:

• There = that place
• Their = belongs to them
• They’re = contraction of “they are”

Sometimes we also don’t recognize our learning, but this is just plain sad.

Got kids? Buy them this book! It’s an EXCELLENT choice for kids and adults alike. You’re guaranteed to learn something you didn’t already know about soundalike words!

No Spelling Bee Winners Here…

What meanie told this person not to have a great day?! Ignore the hater and have an AWESOME day!

We have to admit “definitely” is a tricky word to spell. It’s one of those words you just have to sound out in your head as you spell it.

Ummm… You may want to rethink that, Mr. Chicken.

We think he would have had second thoughts if he’d known what was coming next!

There’s a threat to the Christmas spirit! And it’s not cheap!

Did she consent to that?

Thankfully, there are so many kinds of writing software online to help you avoid spelling issues like these! Check out the Pro Writing Aid and never mistake “wife” and “wifi” again!

You Should Have Had Someone Proofread That…

This one cracks us up! We can forgive the typo in the word “birthday,” but what were they thinking when they iced the words “Mark with The Sea”!

While we agree that everyone deserves a little recognition, we think that Veteran’s Day is a bit more specific.

Yikes! Here’s a bonus one we couldn’t leave out.

Ok, maybe this one wasn’t too funny for the recipient who endured the pain to get this back tattoo, but we do hope they have a sense of humor. Hopefully, if you’re seeking a tattoo, you’ll find a 5-star tattoo shop you can trust with your permanent ink.

Our Take

Word nerds unite! We love sharing my word nerdiness with you guys! Not many people out there get as hot and bothered as we do about grammar, so it’s fun to have a safe place to share our grammar woes. We could use a few more of us in the world, right?!

Your Turn

Do you have a grammar or punctuation pet peeve? Share it with us in the comments!

If you’re looking for a great way to check your documents and social media posts before sending them, check out Grammarly!

If you want to learn even more about apostrophes, quotation marks, and other grammar-related fun, be sure to check out our FREE workshop. You can use those grammar skills to start your own freelance proofreading business!

The post 14 Hilarious Grammar and Spelling Mistakes appeared first on Proofread Anywhere.

Single vs. Double Quotes

Single quotes vs. double quotes — knowing which one to use can be tricky!

Do you know when to use single quotation marks? What about double quotation marks?

We’ve talked/ranted about the rampant abuse of quotation marks before, but today we want to dig a little deeper and explain the difference between single quotes vs. double quotes.

For the purposes of this blog post, we’re only going to be talking about Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS) rules as that’s what our General Proofreading course is built around. 

Is the correct use of quotation marks as important to you as it is to us? Keep reading to learn when to use single quotes vs. double quotes. 

What is the difference between single quote marks and double quote marks?

You’re probably wondering “How do I know if I should use single quotes or double quotes?”

Whether or not you should use single quotation marks depends a lot on what dialect of English your client wants their document to be in: British English or American English.

It’s pretty easy if you’re writing for an American audience; just use double quotation marks the majority of the time except for a few exceptions that we will explain below!

On the other hand, if you’re writing for an audience more familiar with British English, single quotation marks will be more widely used. However, they still use double quotation marks in some cases as well; for example, newspapers will often use double quotes for quotations. 

Confused yet?

Fun fact: British people also call quotation marks inverted commas!

What are single quotes used for?

According to the CMOS, single quotation marks are used for a quotation within a quotation.

Example: “Are you crazy?” said Caitlin. “When you said ‘Commas don’t matter,’ I died a little inside.”

Note: If your audience uses British English, switch the double and single quotation marks around. That is, use single outer, double inner quotation marks for a quote within a quote.

Example: ‘Are you crazy?’ said Caitlin. ‘When you said “Commas don’t matter,” I died a little inside.’

What about if you have a quotation inside a quotation inside another quotation? In American English, the order would be double, single, then double again. 

Example: “Is he crazy?” said Caitlin. “When you said ‘Mark said “Commas don’t matter,”’ I died a little inside.”

It’s a maze, right? In the last example, it might be better to just rewrite the sentence. 

Other uses of single quotation marks that CMOS does not recommend are as follows:

• Use single quotation marks in headlines
• Use single quotation marks for words not being used for their meaning
• Use single quotation marks for emphasis (CMOS recommends using italics for emphasis; occasionally quotation marks may be used depending on the context.)

These rules may apply if you are using a different style guide that recommends them.

What are double quotes used for?

Quotation marks for dialogue

Use quotation marks to signal that someone is speaking within a written work. If someone references a quote within their dialogue, you would then mark that with single quotation marks within the larger double marks.

Quotation marks for titles of works

Use quotation marks for titles of songs, short stories, short poems, magazine or newspaper articles, and chapter titles.

Quotation marks as scare quotes

This one gets slightly trickier. Here’s what The Chicago Manual of Style states in Rule 7.57:

Quotation marks are often used to alert readers that a term is used in a nonstandard (or slang), ironic, or other special sense. Such scare quotes imply “This is not my term” or “This is not how the term is usually applied.” Like any such device, scare quotes lose their force and irritate readers if overused.

For examples of each of these uses, head over to our discussion/rant about quotation mark abuse. 

Placement of quotation marks in relation to other closing punctuation

One thing that confuses a lot of people is where to place quotation marks in relation to other closing punctuation. 

Some of the confusion probably arises because, once again, the British and Americans do it differently! Why can’t they just do it the same way we do in the good ol’ US of A? LOL

So let me break down, from an American English point of view, whether the following punctuation marks go inside or outside the quotation marks:

• Commas and periods – These go inside closing quotation marks, regardless of whether the quotation marks are double or single.
• Question marks and exclamation points – These marks should be placed inside quotation marks only when it is part of the quoted sentence.
• Colons and semicolons – These go outside closing quotation marks. 

In British English, only the punctuation points that appeared in the original material are included inside the quotation marks.

Source: Chicago Manual of Style

Our Take

What do you think? Have you mastered the difference between single and double quotation marks now? Are you looking for a grammar refresher course?

Are there any other punctuation marks that give you trouble? Or any that drive you crazy when you see people misuse them? Let us know in the comments below!

Above all, avoid using unnecessary quotation marks!

Your Turn

Want to improve your punctuation skills even more AND learn how to become a proofreader? Check out our free 7-day proofreading course to learn more!

The post Single Quotes vs. Double Quotes: When Should You Use Them? appeared first on Proofread Anywhere.

What Is a Scopist: Jobs & Salary

Unless you’re a diehard fan of Law & Order, you probably haven’t heard of a scopist before.

Scoping is a niche profession that involves editing transcripts produced by court reporters. Understanding what a scopist does can feel as difficult as solving a crime scene if you’re investigating this career for the first time. 

Luckily though, our detectives are on the case. If you’re looking for a career in the legal field that offers flexibility to work from anywhere, doesn’t require a degree, and promises a lucrative salary, then scoping could be right up your alley.

In this article, we explain exactly what a scopist is and what skills are involved. 

What does a scopist do?

A professional scopist turns a court reporter’s rough transcripts into polished works that accurately capture each speaker’s words in court. This involves checking for spelling mistakes, fixing translation errors, and formatting transcripts according to the court reporter’s preferred style. 

Scopists must also ensure any changes they do make are appropriate for the context. For example, a scopist may need to strategically ignore typical punctuation rules if following the rules would change a phrase’s tone or meaning. These professionals are expected to listen to court audio files, as well as read the rough transcripts, to ensure the scoping edits perfectly capture the court proceedings. 

Is scoping different from court reporting?

While scopists and court reporters both work on legal transcripts, the two professions concern very different roles: court reporters record and transcribe live legal proceedings using shorthand methods and stenotype machines, then scopists assist court reporters by cleaning up their rough transcripts. 

Scopists don’t require as much expertise and industry knowledge as court reporters. Rather than work in the courtroom at the time of the hearing, scopists receive transcripts electronically and work remotely, typically as freelancers. 

Can I work from home as a scopist?

Yep! Scoping is one of the few legal jobs where you can work from home or from anywhere else. In fact, virtually all scopists are self-employed and work remotely, which makes scoping a fantastic career for those after more flexibility in their day-to-day lives.

How to Become a Scopist 

You don’t need to have a legal background to become a successful scopist, nor do you need to have a brain rivaling that of Sherlock Holmes. All the skills required to excel (and grow) as a scopist are accessible, easy to learn, and rewarding to master. 

In fact, many of the skills for this job will come naturally to you if you’re already a freelancer working in the proofreading or editing industry. 

What skills do I need to be a scopist?

Scopists must have an extensive vocabulary, excellent research skills, and an eye for spotting grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors — just like traditional freelance editors. And, as any freelancer knows, the ability to work independently and meet tight turnarounds is key.

Additionally, scopists must be familiar with transcript formatting, computer-aided transcription software (CAT), and steno shorthand. These transcript editors also need to have strong listening skills and an understanding of industry terms. 

While a lot of these skills sound difficult to master, most students build proficiency quickly and easily with training. There are many training courses available online that offer easily digestible courses.  

Grammar Skills

Polishing up transcripts doesn’t just mean fixing obvious spelling mistakes or translation errors. This type of editing also involves correcting grammar to ensure sentences are coherent and accurately reflect each speaker’s tone of voice. 

In some instances, scopists are also expected to break grammar rules if doing so will better capture the speaker’s emotions. For example, some court reporters prefer scopists to keep pauses, hesitations, and repeated words rather than “cleaning up” the transcript. This is certainly one skill that, to pull off successfully, requires a strong understanding of grammar fundamentals. 

But if your grammar is a little rusty, don’t sweat it. Grammar Lion has a super useful grammar refresher course to polish your knowledge of the basics, such as run-on sentences and misused homophones (our biggest grammar pet peeve!).  

Attention to Detail

Scopists are essentially the detectives of the written realm; they hunt for inconsistencies, spot even the smallest of mistakes, and catch mistranslation errors. 

Understandably, these skills all require high attention to detail — which can, of course, be honed with practice. However, other ways to improve include limiting distractions, staying organized, and taking regular breaks to maintain a sharp focus. You should also keep multitasking to a minimum while scoping. 

Familiarity with Industry Terminology

As a freelance scopist, you don’t need to be skilled in the ins and outs of stenography. Court reporters use stenotype machines to record and transcribe live legal proceedings in shorthand, which is then automatically translated into full, legible sentences. Scopists, however, rely on their knowledge of shorthand theories to guide them in fixing the few untranslated steno notes and spotting mistakes in the automatic translation.

Scopists are also familiar with legal, medical, and technical terminology in order to understand and edit transcripts accurately. 

Technology Skills

Scopists don’t have to be super tech-savvy, but they do need to be comfortable with transcript production software such as CAT, editing tools, and word processing software. Scopists should also know how to manage audio files and transfer data in various formats, depending on the court reporter’s preference. 

Other Skills

Among the technical and knowledge-based skills required by professional scopists, soft skills such as project and time management are also a must to be successful in this career. Scopists must be able to work under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and prioritize tasks effectively. 

These professionals should also compose themselves in a professional manner, have strong communication skills, and maintain strict confidentiality of personal details involved in their work (you may have to rethink your go-to remote work spot if it’s currently a busy cafe!). 

Scopist Salary and Pay 

There’s no question about it — scopists can earn a lucrative living. Beginner scopists typically earn $32,254 per year, whereas well-trained scopists hit up to $53,085 annually (or in some cases even more). 

Your exact earning potential will depend on factors such as where you live, job demand, and your level of expertise. Efficiency can play a role too; scopists typically charge by the page ($1 to $1.50 per page on average), meaning the faster they work, the better their income. 

How much money can I make as a scopist?

On average, you can make between $32,254 and $53,085 as a full-time scopist, or around $25,000 on a part-time basis (working 25 hours a week at a rate of $20 per hour). These are some impressive numbers, especially if you’re making the transition from general proofreading to scopist work. 

Scopist Training & Scopist Courses 

Unlike most legal roles, you don’t need a degree to become a successful scopist. While scoping does require some training, you shouldn’t feel out of your depth; the skills needed to succeed as a scopist are fairly easy to pick up, as long as you’re willing to put in the time and effort. 

Do I need formal scoping training?

Editing and formatting court transcripts properly requires specific skills and knowledge in using CAT software, note-reading, and transcript production, as well as industry knowledge about commonly made mistakes in court transcripts and the ethics behind it all.

Luckily, learning the ropes isn’t a multi-year-long endeavor — most scoping training programs only take three to eight months to complete, and the courses are made for any level of legal knowledge and tech expertise. 

Scope School has an absolutely amazing online scopist training program, which we’ll cover in more detail below. 

How can I learn the ropes?

Learning a whole new set of skills can be overwhelming, especially when you factor in a lack of time, other life commitments, and a limited budget. 

But don’t give up on your dream of becoming a scopist just yet — Scope School offers a comprehensive training program that allows you to work at your own pace, making it super easy to juggle the training and the million other things on your plate.

This training is also an incredibly affordable investment, costing 80% to 90% less than a typical college degree but fetching you the same high earning potential. 

Why We Love Scope School

Scope School offers a flexible, inclusive, user-friendly learning experience that we feel is one of the most comprehensive online scoping programs out there. It’s broken into several, in-depth units that cover absolutely everything you need to know about scoping, from formatting transcripts to fundamental grammar rules. 

And while many courses only hone scoping skills, Scope School teaches you how to make use of your newfound skills. The program also includes several business training modules that cover how to advertise your services, build a strong brand identity, and attract potential clients.

As a student, you’ll be guided every step of the way and given lifetime access to exclusive Scope School community groups where members support one another throughout their scopist career journeys. 

Scopist Equipment & Tech

As a freelance scopist, you do need to fork out money for some equipment to ensure you can perform your tasks efficiently and effectively. But don’t let that put you off a scopist career! The cost of required equipment and software are self-employment business expenses that are tax deductible.

Some costs to expect as you begin working as a scopist include CAT software, a high-quality headphone set, and office equipment such as a responsive computer, keyboard, and ergonomic chair. Professionals also recommend investing in a USB foot pedal to make it easier to hear and interact with audio recordings. 

How do I build my scoping business?

You can build your scoping business by honing both your practical scoping skills and marketing skills. 

Here’s where we recommend you begin:

• Enroll in an online training program: Training online is the best way to hone your scoping skills and receive a well-rounded education. If you’re not sure whether you want to specialize as a scopist just yet, you can begin with Transcribe Anywhere’s general transcription course. It will teach you all the fundamentals and better prepare you for a scopist role in the future if you do choose to specialize later on. 
• Become the ultimate wordsmith: Refresh your grammar knowledge, expand your vocabulary, and familiarize yourself with different formatting guidelines. 
• Connect with other scopists for advice: Experienced scopists have a lot of knowledge to offer and in most cases are more than happy to share a few trade secrets or tips. After all, they know what it’s like to be in your shoes!

And once you’re off to a solid start, take some extra steps to hone your marketing skills:

• Participate in online digital marketing courses: You can find plenty of online courses on e-learning platforms like FutureLearn, and Coursera.
• Set up a business website from scratch: Creating a business website from scratch isn’t as difficult as it seems. Our article will guide you through every step of the way! Once you’ve set up your website, you’ll have a whole new platform to establish your brand identity, connect to potential clients, and advertise your services. 
• Try out your brand identity across social media platforms: Over time, you’ll see what types of content receive the most engagement.

We understand that a lot of this can seem daunting, especially the marketing side of things if you’re new to freelancing in general! But we’re confident that with Scope School’s step-by-step training program, you’ll find all the tools, knowledge, and support you need to succeed as a scopist. 

Our Final Thoughts

Becoming a scopist can be a rewarding, fulfilling career for those with a knack for grammar and an interest in legal processes. While scoping does require some training, it comes with the payoff of a high earning potential and flexible career that allows you to work from home. Plus, you don’t need any previous experience or a degree to succeed—just a positive mindset and willingness to learn.

If scoping sounds like your dream job, we highly recommend you check out Scope School’s training program. You can get started with their free intro course to learn more about what scoping entails.

Or, if by the end of this article you decide scoping isn’t for you, there are plenty of other careers that’ll grant you flexibility and allow you to flex your inner wordsmith; have a look at our other guides for learning how to become a transcriptionist, proofreader, or even how to start transcript proofreading. 

Speaking of which, if you’re looking to start proofreading, check out our FREE eBook, The Beginner’s Guide to Proofreading for Profit. 

If you want to learn more about transcript proofreading and how it differs from regular proofreading, our FREE 7-day intro course will teach you everything you need to know. 

The post What is a Scopist? [Salary & Jobs] appeared first on Proofread Anywhere.

Apostrophes can be tricky, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned proofreader. Common mistakes like confusing ‘it’s’ with ‘its’ or using apostrophes to pluralize have become so widespread that the Apostrophe Protection Society (APS), a society founded in 2001 for “preserving the correct use of this currently much-abused punctuation mark,” nearly closed for good due to the dispairing misuse of the tittle.

For freelancers in the writing, proofreading, or editing field, mastering the apostrophe is crucial. Fortunately, it’s not as scary as it seems. By adhering to a few simple rules, you can confidently use apostrophes correctly. For instance, avoid using them with verbs or to pluralize nouns. 

This post offers guidance and examples to help you ride the grammar wave to success. It covers all the essential rules and even highlights common mistakes to avoid. With this knowledge, you’ll soon be carving up apostrophes like a pro surfer on the perfect wave!

How to Use Apostrophes Correctly

The apostrophe (’) is a versatile punctuation mark with three main functions. Its primary use is to show possession, as in “Amy’s pen.” The mark is also used to denote the omission of one or more letters or numerals, usually in contractions like “couldn’t” and “don’t.”

Additionally, in some rare cases, the apostrophe can be used to form plurals of letters, numbers, and symbols. While this is not common usage, it’s good to be aware of it in case you come across it in your writing or reading.

Proofread Anywhere uses the Chicago Manual of Style as our go-to grammar resource. The rules for apostrophe usage can sometimes vary depending on what style guide you adhere to, but for the sake of clarity and consistency, we won’t delve further into any other grammar resources. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at how exactly the apostrophe works.

Using Apostrophes to Show Possession

Do you get possessive about apostrophes? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are some simple rules to help you use them correctly: 

Singular nouns: Add an apostrophe and an ‘s’ to show possession. Yes, even if the noun already ends in ‘s.’ So it’s “the dog’s bone,” not “the dogs’ bone,” and “Chris’s backpack,” not “Chris’ backpack.”

• Correct: “The dog’s bone was half-eaten.”
• Incorrect: “The dogs’ bone was half-eaten.”

• Correct: “Chris’s backpack is blue.” 
• Incorrect: “Chris’ backpack is blue.”

Plural nouns: If the word ends in ‘s,’ just add an apostrophe. If not, add an apostrophe and an ‘s.’

• Correct: “Her parents’ house.”
• Incorrect: “Her parents’s house.”

• Correct: “The children’s books.”
• Incorrect: “The childrens’ books.” (you’ll be surprised how many times we’ve witnessed this misuse in actual libraries!)

Joint possession: When two nouns share something, add an apostrophe and an ‘s’ to the last noun. 

• Correct: “Amy and Edward’s crockpot.”
• Incorrect: “Amy’s and Edward’s crockpot.” 

Exceptions: There are always exceptions, right? If a singular noun that ends in ‘s’ is the same as its plural form, just use an apostrophe. And if the name of a singular entity ends in a plural ‘s,’ only add an apostrophe. And remember some expressions like ‘for goodness’ sake’ only need an apostrophe.

• Correct: “Understanding this species’ history.”
• Incorrect: “Understanding this species’s history.”

• Correct: “The United States’ role in international affairs.” 
• Incorrect: “The United States’s role in international affairs.”

Bonus tip: If adding an apostrophe makes your sentence sound clunky, try rephrasing it instead. For example, “the history of this species” instead of “this species’ history.”

Apostrophes Can Stand in for Missing Letters or Numerals

Apostrophes are often used to replace missing letters in contractions. These shortened forms of words are common in casual writing as they help convey a natural and approachable tone. For example, “don’t” (do not), “shouldn’t” (should not), and “I’ve” (I have) are all contractions.

Apostrophes can also represent the missing digits in shortened forms of years or decades, such as “‘08” for “2008.”

However, it’s important to use contractions in an appropriate way. “Wanna” is a slang contraction for “want to” that should only be used in informal settings, while “want to” is more appropriate for formal writing. Here are some common contractions:

Correct: “They’ll be going on holiday tomorrow” is correct because “they’ll” is a contraction for “they will.”

Correct: “What’s up with him?” is correct because “what’s” is a contraction for “what is.”

Correct: “Keep ‘em that way, that’ll do” is correct because “‘em” stands for “them” and “that’ll” is a contraction for “that will.”

Incorrect: “There’s lots of films on at the cinema” is incorrect because “there’s” is a contraction for “there is.” It should instead be “there are lots of…”

And when you’ve mastered contractions, try some of these quirky contractions, like “twixt” and “y’all’re.”

Forming Plural Letters, Numbers, and Symbols

Apostrophes should never be used in plurals (referring to more than one of something). So, opt for “pizzas” instead of “pizza’s” and “apples” instead of “apple’s.” 

However, there are some situations where apostrophes should be used to indicate the plurals of letters, numbers, and symbols to aid comprehension. For example, lowercase letters in the plural form should be pluralized with an apostrophe and ‘s.’ Therefore, “there are two a’s in Anna” reads much better than “there are two as in Anna.” Remember to use this rule sparingly and only when necessary to avoid unnecessary clutter in your writing.

Just imagine the following sentences without any apostrophes. They would sound like absolute gibberish!

Correct: “Dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s.”

Correct: “Mind your p’s and q’s.”

Incorrect: “The exclamation abracadabra contains five as” is incorrect because the sentence doesn’t make any sense without the apostrophe. It should read as “contains five a’s.”

Incorrect: “She holds two PhD’s” is also incorrect because PhD is capitalized and the sentence reads fine without the apostrophe being there. The correct phrasing is “she holds two PhDs.”

How NOT to Use Apostrophes 

The apostrophe is an incredibly versatile punctuation mark that can serve a multitude of purposes. It can indicate possession, form contractions, and more. However, it’s important to understand that there are some specific instances where an apostrophe should never be used.

Don’t use an apostrophe:

• To make nouns plural 
• To make proper names plural (our ultimate pet peeve!) 
• With possessive pronouns 
• With verbs 
• With noun-derived adjectives ending in ‘S’
• In numbers and abbreviations that are plural but not possessive

You’re likely familiar with a few of these misuses. Even though apostrophes can be tricky, it’s completely normal to make mistakes. In fact, a UK study from 2012 found that even many teachers struggle with it.

But don’t worry, you don’t need to be a grammar expert to use apostrophes correctly. With a few simple rules, you’ll be able to avoid these common mistakes effortlessly. 

Here are some guidelines to follow:

Misuse #1: Don’t Use an Apostrophe +s to Make Nouns Plural

It’s important to be mindful of apostrophe misuse, particularly when it comes to making nouns plural. This is a common error that we see all around us, from grocery signs to published documents.

However, it’s important to remember that an apostrophe with ‘s’ is only used to indicate possession, and doesn’t make anything plural. To form the plural of a noun, simply add an ‘s’ or ‘es’ at the end of the word, depending on its spelling. For example, if the word ends in ‘s,’ ‘x,’ ‘z,’ ‘ch,’ or ‘sh,’ add ‘es,’ and for all other words, just add ‘s.’

Incorrect: “Dog’s prefer meat’s to vegetable’s” is incorrect because nothing in the sentence indicates possession.

Correct: “Dogs prefer meats to vegetables” is correct because each word is a plural noun—you just add on an ‘s.’

Incorrect: “Get five apple’s for a dollar!”

Correct: “Get five apples for a dollar!”

Fun fact: Did you know that this particular grammar mistake is often called the grocer’s apostrophe because of how prevalent it is in grocery store signs? 

For more grammar jokes and explanations, follow us on Instagram! 

Misuse #2: Do Not Use an Apostrophe +s to Make a Proper Name Plural 

Another misuse proofreaders tell us about is the use of an apostrophe and ‘s’ to form the plural of a proper name. You may have received a card or two where the sender has mistakenly added an apostrophe to their last name in an attempt to pluralize it, like “from the Clarkson’s” or “Love, the Davis’ family.” 

Unfortunately, this is not the correct way to form the plural of a proper name, despite how commonly it is seen. Proper names should follow the same pluralization rule mentioned earlier, without using an apostrophe.

Incorrect: “Happy Holidays from the Martin’s” is incorrect because the sentence doesn’t indicate ownership.

Correct: “Happy Holidays from the Martins” is correct because ‘s’ makes the proper name plural.

Misuse #3: Do Not Use an Apostrophe with Possessive Pronouns

It’s important to note that possessive pronouns don’t require an apostrophe. While an apostrophe indicates possession, possessive pronouns already have that meaning built-in, so adding an apostrophe to them is unnecessary. Think of it like buying a new zipper for a jacket that already has a working one—it’s redundant and doesn’t serve any practical purpose!

Incorrect: “It was his fault not her’s and they both didn’t know the vase was your’s” is incorrect because “her” and “your” already have possessive forms.

Correct: “It was his fault, not hers and they both didn’t know the vase was yours” is correct because the sentence uses the appropriate possessive pronouns.

The confusion between “its” and “it’s” is a common apostrophe misuse that is worth paying attention to. While the two words sound the same, they have different meanings and uses. “Its” is a possessive pronoun that indicates ownership, while “it’s” is a contraction for “it is” or “it has.” 

To avoid this common error, try breaking down the word into its expanded form to determine which one to use. If “it is” or “it has” makes sense in the sentence, then “it’s” is the correct choice. If not, then use “its.”

Incorrect: “The cat lifted it’s head” is incorrect because when the contraction is broken down into its uncontracted form, “the cat lifted it is head,” it doesn’t make any sense.

Correct: “The cat lifted its head.” 

Misuse #4: Do Not Use an Apostrophe with Verbs

This apostrophe misuse isn’t as prevalent as the others we’ve discussed so far, but it’s still worth knowing about, especially if you tend to overuse apostrophes. This mistake often happens when people apply the basic apostrophe rules to every word that sounds possessive and ends in an ‘s.’ 

However, remember that verbs never need apostrophes. Adding an apostrophe to a verb may result in a contraction, which could completely alter the sentence’s meaning. So, it’s important to use apostrophes only where necessary and avoid overusing the rules.

Incorrect: “She always find’s time to walk 20 minutes a day and she spend’s a good portion of it going at a fast pace” is incorrect because “find” and “spend” are both verbs. 

Correct: “She always finds time to walk 20 minutes a day and she spends a good portion of it going at a fast pace.”

Misuse #5: Do Not Use an Apostrophe with Noun-Derived Adjectives Ending in ‘S’

This particular apostrophe misuse is pretty rare, but as a freelance proofreader or editor, it’s important to be aware of it since you may encounter it from time to time. Remember, not all words ending in ‘s’ need apostrophes. So, always double-check before adding one, even if it sounds possessive. 

Incorrect: “The Christmas’ music was the perfect start to the festivities” is incorrect because the sentence makes complete sense without the apostrophe being there. Nothing has possession.

Correct: “The Christmas music was the perfect start to the festivities.”

Misuse #6: Don’t Use an Apostrophe in Numbers and Abbreviations that are Plural but not Possessive

Misusing apostrophes in numbers and abbreviations that are plural but not possessive can result in awkward sentences. So, removing the apostrophe entirely can often improve the readability of the text. This misuse is particularly common when attempting to write plural years. 

Incorrect: “I was born in the 1990’s and my sister was born back in the 1980’s” is incorrect because the sentence reads completely fine without the apostrophes. 

Correct: “I was born in the 1990s and my sister was born back in the 1980s.”

Our Take

The apostrophe might be a tiny punctuation mark, but its purpose is nothing less than mighty. When used properly, it ensures your sentences are easy to understand and truly convey your intended message. 

It’s particularly vital to master common grammar rules if you’re a student or working professional since your writing will be judged by colleagues, teachers, or employers. A polished piece of work will be perceived as a heck of a lot better than something with misplaced apostrophes or misused words and homophones. 

To brush up on your grammar skills, check out the Look Better in Writing Handbook. You can also take part in the Grammar Lion: English Grammar Course, which offers a refresher on the biggest grammar rules as well as some more advanced grammar tips. And if you’re struggling, don’t worry—there’s support out there, such as the Write your way to freedom course, which can help you stay positive and motivated throughout your writing journey.

Your Turn

Have you made any of these common apostrophe errors? Don’t feel ashamed—even the most seasoned writers can fall victim to these mistakes. Share your experiences in the comments below, and feel free to vent about your grammar pet peeves. 

Are you a grammar nerd looking for a way to earn money without leaving the house? Check out our FREE video workshop to see if proofreading is right for you! You can also have a quick browse of our dedicated how to become a proofreader and an intro to proofreading marks that you can browse through. 

The post Grammar Pet Peeves: 6 Ways to Use Apostrophes Correctly appeared first on Proofread Anywhere.

We’ve all had that moment. Your eyes are weak. You’re tired. You’ve been proofreading for hours, and you come across something that just doesn’t look right, but you can’t figure out why.

It’s probably because it’s a homophone — one of those tricky grammar phenomena that trip a lot of people up!

Most people have an excuse for missing these words though, but not us proofreaders! We’re held to a much higher standard. Not being able to spot misused words is the quickest way to look unskilled and incompetent as a proofreader. 

Here are 12 examples of commonly confused homophones you need to get your head around if you want to be a successful proofreader!

What Is a Homophone?

Homophones are two or more words that sound the same but have different meanings, origins, or spelling.

They are sometimes confused with homonyms and homographs. 

Homonyms — words that are spelled the same and sound the same but have different meanings

Homographs — words that have the same spelling but sound different and have a different meaning

Why Is It Hard to Spot Homophones?

Your brain sees what it wants to see. When you’re reading a document, especially if you wrote said document, you usually know what you or the writer meant to say, so your brain automatically skips over the words. 

As proofreaders, we need to train ourselves to read more slowly so we don’t skip over errors like homophones. 

Before you object and tell me that Word’s Spell Check feature or the Grammarly app will spot those mistakes, so you don’t have to worry about them, let me stop you right there. 

Proofreading apps often miss things like this. They struggle to pick up on context, so that’s why the human mind will always be better when it comes to proofreading.

Source: Some Cards

Common Homophones Proofreaders Need to Understand

There are dozens of homophones you need to be aware of, but I’ll give you a short list of the most common homophones you need to understand. 

Catch these and you’re well on your way to impressing your proofreading clients!

You’re/Your

Your is the possessive form of you.

Example: Your dog bit me!

You’re is the contraction for “you are.”

Example: You’re going to have to pay my medical expenses now.

Source: Imgur

Their/There/They’re

Their is the possessive of they. 

Example: Their shoes were dirty because they have been out bird watching in the park.

There means “in that place” or “in that way.” 

Example: They have bird watched there for many years. 

They’re is the contraction of “they are”

Example: They’re going to win an award for identifying a rare type of bird they found.

Too/To/Two

Too means “in addition to” or “more than was desirable.”

Example: Is she coming to the mermaid appreciation conference too?

Example: You put too many sprinkles on my cake!

The word “to” indicates movement or expresses location.

Example: He went to Disneyland even though he had a deep-seated fear of Mickey Mouse. 

Two is a number.

Example: I have two main loves in life: coffee and cats.

Compliment/Complement 

A compliment is a flattering or praising remark.

Example: He wanted to compliment her on her sunny disposition, but he was too shy.

A complement is something that adds extra features to something to make it better.

Example: This blog post is a wonderful complement to the Look Better in Writing Handbook.

Pray/Prey 

To pray means to address a prayer to God or to wish for something.

Example: I pray for world peace every night.

Prey means to hunt or a person who is easily deceived.

Example: I will no longer fall prey to any more scams now that I’ve found a legitimate work-from-home opportunity. 

Stationary/Stationery 

Stationary means staying in one place or being in a state of immobility. 

Example: She remained stationary so that she wouldn’t be spotted.

Stationery denotes writing materials.

Example: Her favorite summer activity was buying stationery for the new school year.

Source: makeameme.org

Corps/Core 

A corps is a body of like workers, as in an army, with special duties and responsibilities.

Example: They joined the Marine Corps together just like they have planned since childhood.

Core means the central or most important part of something.

Example: I ate the apple right down to the core because I was so hungry.

Weather/Whether

Weather means atmospheric conditions like cold, hot, rain, etc.

Example: The weather is always amazing in Florida, except during hurricane season!

You use whether when you want to express a choice between alternatives. 

Example: I couldn’t decide whether I wanted rocky road or mint chocolate chip, so I got both!

Heir/Air

An heir is a person legally entitled to a deceased person’s money or belongings.

Example: He was heir to a huge fortune, but he gave it all up for love.

Air is a substance consisting mainly of oxygen and nitrogen.

Example: The air was thick with smoke due to the nearby forest fires. 

Ant/Aunt

An ant is a small insect that lives in a colony.

Example: I crushed that ant like a bug!

An aunt is a family member — a sibling to your father or mother.

Example: I crushed my aunt like a bug! (Just kidding!!)

Write/Right

To write means to mark letters, numbers, or symbols on a surface like paper or online. 

Example: I love to write because it allows me to connect with fellow word nerds!

Right means something that’s true or morally correct. It’s also a direction. 

Example: I’m right all the time — at least, I think I am!

Genes/Jeans

Genes are characteristics you inherit from your parents.

Example: I got my good genes from my parents. 

Jeans are a type of trousers.

Example: I stopped wearing jeans the minute we went into lockdown!

Introducing the Look Better in Writing Handbook

Want to find all the answers to your homophone questions in one handy eBook instead of scouring the internet every time you have a question?

You need my Look Better in Writing Handbook — a 57-page guide to 166 words/terms that are easily mixed up and confused!

All those pesky homophones, misspellings, and typos you torture yourself with are included in this handy guide, ready for you whenever your brain malfunctions. You can easily find the correct word without spending wasted minutes searching online.

The words are in alphabetical order and, better yet, they come with practical and humorous examples to get you on your way. The correct wording appears in a different color so you never have to wonder if you got it right.

Once you’ve read and absorbed the handbook, it’s time to test your knowledge with my 100-question worksheet + answer key to help you master the proper use of the words.

Get the Look Better in Writing Handbook and Workbook Combo Here!

Please note that this resource guide and worksheet are included as bonuses in the Transcript Proofreading: Theory and Practice and General Proofreading: Theory and Practice courses.

Did you love learning the difference between all of these common homophones? Keep the fun going by checking out various punctuation pet peeves and grammar myths that drive me crazy! I bet they get on your wick too. 

Want to find out more about becoming a freelance proofreader? Sign up for our free Intro to Proofreading workshop!

Do any other homophones tend to trip you up? Let me know in the comments!

The post 12 Common Homophones You Need to Know appeared first on Proofread Anywhere.

Ever wondered what it takes to get better at grammar?

Worried that grammar apps have replaced human proofreaders?

Intrigued by how one becomes a grammarian?

We’re answering these questions and more today in our interview with Ellen Feld from Grammar Lion!

After becoming a mom, Ellen was looking for a career change and found a way to combine her love of teaching with her excellent grammar knowledge. She created an online grammar course to help people communicate better, and every day her students benefit from her passion.

I’m stoked to be able to collaborate with a fellow grammar nerd to bring you this interview. 

If you want to learn why grammar is so important, even in an age where grammar apps exist, keep reading!

Hi, Ellen! Tell us a little about yourself and how you got started in your line of work.

Some people know me as a grammarian and online instructor, but I’m a creative writer too — poetry, fiction, personal essays, and children’s books. 

Right out of grad school, I taught developmental writing to college students. The first intimidating stack of student papers (and they were paper then) was the catalyst for my interest in teaching grammar. I had no idea how to comment constructively on essays written by students who hadn’t been taught basic writing skills. 

I’ve never believed writing is all about grammar. It’s not. Good grammar doesn’t make good writing, but good writing demands good grammar. 

I was lucky to have had an education that included grammar rights and wrongs. But I didn’t have a grammar language to share with students. I started studying the same textbook the college assigned to its students. Then I made grammar part of how we worked on refining writing. 

(As a writing instructor, I ask students to create first, free from the boundaries of rules. Grammar comes into the redrafting and editing stages.)

Fast forward — I was a mom exploring a career change. I enrolled in my first online course because I wanted to learn how to build web pages. Distance education was a new thing. I liked the medium so much that I knew I wanted to use it to teach. I found a platform and got to work developing my first online grammar course. 

That’s awesome! The internet has opened up so many opportunities for people to learn new skills without having to attend classes in person. What do you do now and whom do you help?

I’ve been teaching grammar online for 18 years, and I also work as a developmental editor.

Students come to my course from across the globe. They’re a truly diverse group. From teens to octogenarians, they represent a range of ages, education, and work experience. 

Most of us have to do some kind of writing, whatever our role or job title is. We have applications to fill out and forms to complete. We have to email bosses, patients, staff, teachers, government officials, family, or friends. We don’t have to write white papers to have reason to use our grammar smarts. We all want and need to be understood.

Our writing represents who we are. 

I couldn’t agree more. Anyone who writes anything can benefit from using good grammar. What’s your favorite part of your job?

I have two favorite parts: (1) I love the connection with students. It’s virtual but tangible; and (2) I’m gratified every time a student experiences pride and joy in learning something they can use in their real world, whether it’s mastering the apostrophe or understanding the difference between lay and lie. I tell them to celebrate. Small changes add up to a big change.

Is there a demand for people with good grammar skills? What kinds of companies are looking for people with good grammar skills? 

There sure is! What kind of company doesn’t value good grammar skills? Just this past week an HR manager of a relocation company told me she was seeing a lot of “nearly cringeworthy” email exchanges among staff. Nobody wants emails like those going out to clients.

Do you think it’s possible to use your grammar and punctuation skills to earn an income from home?

More and more of us work remotely. And it isn’t all phone and Zoom; it involves written communication. People need basic writing skills so they can communicate with confidence.

For any remote worker doing any kind of writing or editing — from fundraising to responding in a chat box to helping an indie author — good grammar will come into play. People with grammar skills are a tremendous asset.

If you’re just getting started with a home-based business, grammar skills can help you build your brand and show your communication strength. 

There are obvious benefits to having a foundation in grammar for work requiring transcribing, proofreading, or straightforward messaging. But there’s a broader need for good grammar. Employers expect their people to wear many hats. We’re supposed to create “publication-ready” writing. We need good grammar to accomplish that.

Even jobs that seem to have nothing to do with writing ultimately require writing and editing skills. A designer may have to proofread a blog. A virtual assistant may be asked to create sales copy.

What about all those grammar apps that are available now? Are people who are good at grammar not needed anymore?

Every day I use Word’s spelling and grammar check and the spell check in my email program. It’s hard for writers to see their own mistakes, and apps can help. 

In the future, artificial intelligence could surpass an editor’s abilities. Until then, people are better than apps at understanding context and meaning. We can process nuances. We can decide if something is right or wrong and judge the validity of an app’s decision. 

To do any of that, we need to know grammar rules and understand how to apply them. Grammar apps often fall short on application! 

I think apps are great for a quick first and/or final check. For that deeper round of edits, our human brains are best.

The robots haven’t taken over yet! Do you think you can learn how to be good at grammar, etc. or do you have to be born with eagle eyes? What kind of traits do people who are good at grammar have?

It helps to have an eagle eye and the patience for doing close detail work. But good grammar comes from knowledge and skills that anyone who wants to can develop. 

We often like what we’re good at and get gratification from being good at something. Not everyone loves grammar, but a lot of people are surprised by how much they enjoy it when they come to it today because they’re motivated to learn how to use it now, whatever they do. 

An eagle eye is a must-have! For those who are a good fit, how would you recommend they improve their grammar skills?

Be ready to learn, but be patient with yourself. We don’t earn our grammar black belts in an hour. We go to class and we practice. 

Use tools like books, quizzes, and online grammar courses. Read and question what you read.

Keep resources like an online dictionary at your fingertips. It’s free and will teach you about a whole lot more than spelling. 

Be discerning with online resources. There’s a lot of bad info floating around. Use reliable sites.

Don’t worry about memorizing. In my course, I encourage students to focus on comprehension. I equip them with the resources to research what they’re unsure of or don’t remember. This is part of grammar empowerment. 

I always say that! You don’t need to memorize every single rule; you just need to be aware of them and know how to find the answers. What makes your course different from other online grammar courses?

The truth is grammar books and courses all have pretty much the same material. 

The first difference is presentation. The course is comprehensive, straightforward, and serious. We get down to the nitty-gritty. It’s not lofty; it’s practical. There’s no passive video watching. Students in this course read their lessons — written words are the best medium for actively learning this subject. 

The biggest difference comes in my personal approach. I was a college instructor. I offer the distance learning equivalent of what I offered in the face-to-face classroom. I’m accessible. There’s a real person behind the screen who wants her students to succeed. I’m rooting for them. Really. And I think students know this.  

Students have options in my course. They can be entirely independent and complete their course without ever interacting with their classmates and me. Alternatively, anyone who wants support can get it. I’m always ready to help. Our course discussion board is for real questions seeking real answers. I respond to every message. Students who prefer a more private approach can email me. 

Everybody’s invited to Grammar Lion on Facebook, where the learning continues. My email door is always open to students. When their course time ends, I’m still here for them. 

Our Take

Ellen’s love of teaching really shines through in her words! You will definitely be in good hands if you sign up for her Grammar Lion: A Grammar Refresher course. I’ve gone through the course content and it is SOLID!

You might be wondering why I’m promoting someone else’s grammar course… 

Here’s why: There isn’t much overlap between the Proofread Anywhere courses and Grammar Lion. Grammar Lion isn’t a proofreading course; it’s an online grammar course. You’re not going to get the same information about how to use your resources, get practice, and start or grow a proofreading business. That’s what Proofread Anywhere courses are for! 

With Grammar Lion, you’ll fill in the gaps in your knowledge — those grammar concepts you never quite grasped. 

Our students are huge fans of the course!

Your Turn

If you’re struggling to improve your English grammar or you want to get into the nitty-gritty and learn the whys and wherefores of grammar rules, Grammar Lion: A Grammar Refresher is the course for you!

You better act fast: Grammar Lion is a steal right now, but I don’t know how long it will remain that price!

The post Get Better at Grammar appeared first on Proofread Anywhere.

We all know why proofreaders are awesome. They help writers fix grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. That benefit is the main reason why so many writers hire proofreaders. 

But there are other more hidden benefits of hiring a proofreader! Not only can proofreaders help writers improve the quality of their work but they can also save them time and leave them with enough creative energy to pump out more content. 

When a writer can find the time to write more, they can earn more. And the more they write, the more they need to hire a proofreader. Win-win for everyone!

Today on the blog, Kevin from Freelanceaholics shares how hiring a proofreader nearly doubled his income as a freelance writer!

Take it away, Kevin!

How Hiring a Proofreader Nearly DOUBLED My Income

I’m not a good profreadr proofreader.  

I hate editing. Probably because I’m not any good at it.

Always have and always will.

And don’t even get me started on punctuation. Based on her rancor regarding the colon vs. semicolon debate (and her condemnation of misused apostrophes), Caitlin would probably go into cardiac arrest if she were my proofreader.

Source: Pinterest

I’m a writer. Not a proofreader. 

When the juices are flowing and my brain is cooking, the words basically write themselves. I can write a quality 1,000-word blog in a shade over 30 minutes.

But editing was always my biggest weakness.

As I was working my way up, I heard great feedback consistently… but always with a caveat:

 “Hey, Kevin. Great blog, but there were a few typos. Can you go back and fix that?”.

“Loved the blog, man, but the typos look VERY unprofessional”

“Hey, Kev. The content manager is on vacation this week so nobody will be there to check the work. DO. NOT. MAKE. ANY. MISTAKES. DO. YOU. UNDERSTAND. ME!?!?”

I got you, man. Stop yelling…

But, actually… he was right. I didn’t get him. Didn’t work out much longer with me and that agency.

Looking back from where I am now, I realize the one “level-up” that helped me nearly double my income: MY PROOFREADER.

Ben is an awesome proofreader. He also happens to be one of my best friends and former roommate when we lived in Prague. We can totally relate to the value of personal connections in online business and safeguarding our work.

I see typos like a bat sees — well — anything.

But Ben has hawk eyes.

Now, instead of spending God knows how long proofreading 3,000–4,000 word mega posts (and destroying my brain), I just put a link in Trello, wait a bit, and BOOM it’s done perfectly.

My efficiency NOW compared to two years ago is basically night and day. 

Wait, Kevin. How Did a Proofreader Actually Help 2x Your Income?

Keeping track of everything in Trello is easy. Imagine how long it would take me to write all of this if I had to proofread it? **Shudders** NOTE: That’s not Ben’s real name. 

Imagine you’re a freelance writer like me.

You’re writing, researching, and cooking up new ideas constantly. And since you’re crazy creative, there’s a good chance you didn’t sleep well the night before.

Your brainpower is your biggest asset. Having a proofreader to care for my biggest, most time-consuming weakness has been a game changer in every sense of the word.

I can save my brainpower now…

You already know I hate editing (see above). 

Before, I would slog through each article and edit only because I had to. It’s tough to break into this business, and even harder to maintain a good reputation once you have it. 

Typos, poor punctuation, and repetitive writing will sink your career faster than (insert disgraced politician, actor, or comedian here).

By the time I’d finished editing a 2,000-word piece, I didn’t have enough brainpower to move on to the next one. I’d have to rest for a while, go for a run, read an interesting article, or play some music just to get the juices running again.

Now, BOOM: I send it off to Ben and I get RIGHT TO WORK on the next one with my brain intact. I can easily crank out 3,000–4,000 words a day (on multiple topics) now if I know the topic well. 

Before, I’d get to 2,000 words, stop, proofread, and then feel like “Nah, time to rest.”

It obviously saves time…

You work-at-home heroes don’t need me to say this, but proofreading takes a long time. 

I can write a 500-word blog post in 20 minutes or less. It might very well take me the SAME AMOUNT OF TIME TO PROOFREAD IT (OR MORE!).

And even then I STILL might not catch all the errors. Now, I just move right along to the next piece. In the time it used to take me to write a 500-word blog post and edit it, I can now write two 500-word posts. (Though I normally don’t even write at this length anymore.)

It increases the quality of my work…

Remember all that negative feedback from clients?

That pretty much never happens anymore.

Every client of mine gets high-quality work without punctuation, formatting, or spelling errors. And my proofreader catches me when I slip up and get lazy.

If he notices my quality slipping or poor word choice, he leaves notes or comments and notifies me immediately. Like this…

Notice the typo… I told you I’m not any good at this. Ignore the use of “ur”; this isn’t official documentation.

Now, I can churn out more work at higher quality. His proofreading might have helped me MORE than double my income.

OK cool, Kevin. So How Does That Help Us Work-at-Home Heroes?

Good question… I’ll explain.

The majority of freelance writers I know DON’T use a proofreader. Maybe I’m just not talking to the right people, but it seems to me like this is an untapped resource for proofreaders to break into the business.

I don’t know what rates are like across the board, but I know that Ben makes an easy couple of hundred dollars a month proofreading for me, and it doesn’t take him much time at all.

Closing thoughts on hiring a proofreader

Having a proofreader has been huge now that I’ve launched Freelanceaholics. I’ve been working on creating a resource for freelance writers online for quite a while, but it’s been hard to find the time.

Especially with the mega guides I’ve been writing, there’s no way I could possibly edit them on my own and still get enough work done.

So on behalf of all the writers out there, THANKS!

Without a proofreader, who knows where I would be today?

Our take

I love that Kevin realizes the value of having a proofreader! Book authors aren’t the only ones who need our help; let’s add freelance writers to our list of possible clients! If they have the time and creative energy to double their income, that means more work for you!

Your turn

Want to offer professional proofreading services to freelance writers and help boost their income (and yours!)? Check out our free Intro to Proofreading workshop to learn how you can get started as a proofreader. 

Hey, I’m Kevin, and I’m a guitar-playing vagabond and freelance writer with more than 5 years of experience writing e-commerce and high-value niche web content (legal, medical, dental content). I’ve recently gone on to launch Freelanceaholics, a learning resource for new writers. It covers my complete experience in this business from building a career from SCRATCH to earning more than $5,000 a month writing. And all while living on the road.

The post How Hiring a Proofreader Nearly DOUBLED My Income appeared first on Proofread Anywhere.

A while ago, I shared my top resources that make proofreading easier. I keep running across more and more resources I want to share with you, but that post is getting super long, so I’m back with another one.

If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for ways to upgrade your skills, work faster, or work more efficiently. Or maybe you just want to geek out reading grammar books. No judgment here, y’all! I love a good grammar book as much as the next word nerd. ????

So without further ado, here are 14 more must-have proofreading resources.

Grammar Books

I’ve been a huge fan of Grammar Girl for years! She’s got a super informative blog, a weekly podcast, and a ton of books. If you’re looking for a quick answer about a pesky grammar problem, she’s your go-to expert.

Here are just a couple of her awesome books:

Grammar Girl’s Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing by Mignon Fogarty

Find it hard to remember all the grammar and usage rules? In this book, Grammar Girl offers memory tricks and clear explanations to help you remember the most troublesome grammar rules and word-choice guidelines. After reading this book, you’ll never mix up “between vs. among” and “although vs. while” again! And comma splices will be a thing of the past!

Check it out on Amazon.

Grammar Girl’s 101 Misused Words You’ll Never Confuse Again by Mignon Fogarty

One of the things writers find tricky is distinguishing between words that sound similar but have different meanings. As proofreaders, we need to catch these typos and save the writer from ridicule. This book will teach you the difference between affect and effect, hysterical vs. hilarious, purposely vs. purposefully, and many more confusing words.

Buy the book here.

Psst – I also wrote a book to help you master the proper use of 166 confusing words — The Look Better in Writing Handbook of Commonly Misused (and Abused!) Words. And there’s also a worksheet so you can put what you learn into practice. You can get this handbook and practice test for FREE if you’re a student of either my Transcript Proofreading: Theory and Practice course or my General Proofreading: Theory and Practice course or you can purchase the books here.

Not sure which course is for you? Check out my free Intro to Proofreading workshop and my 7-day email course to help you decide!

Ready to Branch Out?

New Oxford Style Manual

If you’ve focused solely on attracting clients in the US, now might be the time to widen your search. There are lots of other English-speaking writers out there who need your help! If you’d like to work with authors who write in British English, make sure you have a copy of the New Oxford Style Manual on hand.

Buy the New Oxford Style Manual here.

Editing Canadian English: A Guide for Editors, Writers, and Everyone Who Works with Words

Same goes if you want to work with authors who write in Canadian English. The Editing Canadian English style guide will help you figure out if you should spell words with or without the “u” or with an “ise” instead of an “ize.”

Find it on Amazon.

The Associated Press Stylebook

The gold standard for news-style writing, the Associates Press Stylebook will be your bible if you want to proofread for newspapers, magazines, or blogs.

Buy the book here.

The Copyeditor’s Handbook and Workbook

Want to add copyediting to your skill set? Mo’ skills = mo’ money, right?! This handbook and workbook are packed full of examples and exercises that’ll help you hone your craft. Perfect for those of you who like hands-on learning!

Check them out here.

It Was the Best of Sentences, It Was the Worst of Sentences: A Writer’s Guide to Crafting Killer Sentences by June Casagrande

If you want to branch out into writing, then this book will help make your writing more engaging — you know, so people will actually want to read it. ????

Just like June Casagrande’s other book The Best Punctuation Book, Period, this book does not disappoint. Using humorous examples, she explains what makes a good sentence — and what doesn’t.

Check it out here.

Mindset Books

Work at Home by Caitlin Pyle

Yup, I’m going to recommend my own book as an essential resource. #sorrynotsorry

Some people never get started on their work-at-home journey because they’re too afraid of falling prey to scams. Or they’ve grown up believing certain things about money, education, and success. Or they just don’t know where to get started.

Do any of those statements sound like you? If so, I wrote this book to show you how much control you have over your own income. With the mind-blowing power of the internet, it doesn’t matter where you live, what your spouse does for a living, how many kids you have, what year you graduated from college, or even if you never went to college at all.

What does matter? What’s between your ears and how you use it. The human brain is more capable than many of us believe, and making the conscious decision to own and harness its power — harness your power — will transform your life.

You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero

I know so many of you are suffering from self-doubt, and you think you’re not capable of success. Well, you are! You just need to figure out how to overcome your doubts. If you want to identify and change the self-sabotaging beliefs and behaviors that stop you from getting what you want, create a life you love, and make some money (and you’re not scared of the occasional swear word), then check out this hilarious how-to guide.

Learn how to be a badass here.

Looking for more motivational books? I share my favorites here!

Just for Fun

Want to hear from the experts? The next few books were written by writers and editors from some of the most prestigious publications and publishers out there.

Between You and Me: Confessions of a Comma Queen by Mary Norris

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to work as a copy editor for the New Yorker, and you want to learn more about punctuation, grammar, and spelling from the Comma Queen herself (I so wish I’d been called that first!), you need to check out this book.

Available on Amazon.

Dreyer’s English: An Utterly Correct Guide to Clarity and Style by Benjamin Dreyer

Random House’s copy chief, Benjamin Dreyer, playfully deconstructs the English language, offers lessons on punctuation and the rules and non-rules of grammar, and answers questions like is “alright” a word.

Check it out here.

Eats, Shoots, and Leaves: The Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation by Lynne Truss

If you enjoy my punctuation pet peeve series on the blog, then you’ll enjoy this book by Sunday Times writer Lynne Truss. She showcases the hilarious consequences of punctuation gone awry through examples from literature, history, neighborhood signage, and her own imagination!

Buy Eats, Shoots, and Leaves.

Woe Is I: The Grammarphobe’s Guide to Better English in Plain English by Patricia T. O’Conner

Former editor at The New York Times Book Review Patricia T. O’Conner released the fourth edition of this much-loved grammar book earlier in 2019. Her easy-to-understand explanations make this book a must-have for grammar nerds. I love how she highlights that language is ever-changing. We proofreaders need to stay on top of these changes if we want to provide the best possible service for our clients!

Check it out here.

Looking for even more recommendations? Check out this resource page where I talk about my favorite tools and resources for building your website, running your freelance business, and even keeping fit!

Your Turn

So what do you think? Are you looking forward to a trip to the library or bookstore? Have you given yourself a repetitive strain injury from clicking away on Amazon? If you have other must-have proofreading resources you recommend, let me know in the comments! I’m always looking for more great books to read and share with you all.

The post 14 Must-Have Proofreading Resources to Make Work Easier appeared first on Proofread Anywhere.