Freelance proofreading is a type of proofreading in which the proofreader accepts work from a diverse range of clients while working independently rather than for a single publisher or company. Many proofreaders work as freelancers because they value the work’s flexibility, the ability to set their own hours, and the ability to directly negotiate prices with clients. They can accept work directly from authors as well as work from publishing houses and printers on a contract basis. At some point, every piece of printed and widely distributed material must pass through the hands of a proofreader, and skilled proofreaders are in high demand.
A proofreader checks for errors in spelling, grammar, and sentence structure in a manuscript. Proofreaders can look over work that an author is preparing for submission to an agent or editor, weeding out major flaws to make it more presentable, and they can also help with publication preparation. After an editor has gone over a work for tone and style, a proofreader fixes basic errors so that it can be typeset, and the proofreader may go over it again after typesetting to make sure it is error-free.
The terms “freelance proofreading” and “freelance editing” are not interchangeable. Although both editors and proofreaders are critical to the publishing process, their roles are distinct. Editors examine a work’s overall content and make changes to improve clarity, style, and tone. Proofreaders are more interested in the fundamental structure of a work than in its content. They may also check an editor’s changes against the original manuscript to ensure that the author’s voice is preserved and that the editor did not inadvertently change the author’s intent.
One of the biggest benefits of freelance proofreading is that it can be done from home rather than an office, allowing the proofreader to set up an efficient workspace, save money on commuting, and set a schedule that works for them. Some people prefer working late at night, while others prefer working early in the morning, and freelance proofreaders can also care for children, run businesses, and do other things that a salaried employee would not be able to do.
People who work as freelance proofreaders can choose how much or how little work they want to do, as well as which clients they want to work with. Proofreaders who work for publishers or companies that provide proofreading and editing services may not have as much discretion. Books, articles, brochures, and a variety of other printed materials can be handled freelancers. A specialty in specific types of printed material or work, such as novels, scientific articles, or children’s books, can be added to freelance proofreading.