Proofreading
Okay, normally I would give a proper definition to go with your little thing here. But not now.
Proofreading is looking over works for mistakes so that you may tweak them. Normally done before the work is fully finalized and isn't necessary, but in most cases could be truly helpful.
Many authors and writers need a fresh pair of eyes to proofread. Personally I advise you do get some. You can have someone else proofread or you can do it yourself. As it has been advised before, but I would say you need space between your final edits and your proofread.
Is it obvious that I don't proofread myself?
Anyway, proofreading is something that you will see authors do once they can print out a physical copy of their copyedited book. They will look over formatting as well as for any misprints such as incorrect headers or page numbers. Bad indentation, or words placed in incorrect grammatical order and so on.
For example, if the sentence was to read, "the ran boy." This is either a mistake that was missed or a misprint. The sentence would then be fixed to, "the boy ran." It is important that when you proofread you do a lighter but more critical version of your copy edit.
I will reiterate you are searching for grammar, formatting, spelling, tense, and making sure that your book has followed whatever structure that you've started so that pacing looks good.
More on structures some other time. If I forget, remind me.
This is the author/reader/editors real last pass to fix any inconsistencies and errors (a blank page, a missing section, etc.)
From my own experience, proofreading should happen after your copy edit, with your print copy of your novel and your e-book copy (there can be mistakes anywhere, pay attention!). The time frame is all based on your publishing schedule but should happen a month or so before your desired publication date.
Remember with proofreading, take your time. And that if you are self-published than you will be able to go back and fix any mistakes on your own. If you are traditionally published, as long as you catch the mistakes in time I am sure your team will be well on the way to hashing out any mistakes.
Okay, I am done rambling because this feels very self-helpy or whatever. Have a good day peace out! :)
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Let's Talk Writing
Non-FictionThe incoherent ramblings of an author in disarray. Here I will touch on the many different things that goes into writing and being an author. Even if you learn nothing from this, maybe you'll have a laugh or two at my expense.
