Proofread: meaning, definitions and examples

When you go over a draft to find and correct surface errors. Though it's the same as the first 'proofread', including it again emphasizes its specific role.

• I will proofread my resume to ensure it's error-free.
• Proofread your cover letter to make a good impression.

When you need to make changes to the content, structure, or style of a text to improve its clarity, coherence, and overall quality. Editing involves more substantial changes than proofreading.

• The editor will edit the manuscript for publication.
• I have to edit this article to make it more engaging.

When you make reconsiderations or modifications to the content of a text, looking at the bigger picture to improve the overall message and coherence. Revising can involve adding, removing, or reorganizing content.

• I need to revise my thesis after receiving feedback from my advisor.
• Let's revise the plan to include the new information.

When you need to verify the accuracy of information or ensure something meets specific requirements. This is a broader term that can apply to numbers, facts, or overall correctness.

• Please check the calculations in this budget proposal.
• I need to check if all the names are spelled correctly on the invitation list.

Carefully read a written text to find and correct any errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation. Often done as a final review before publishing or submission.

• I need to proofread my essay before I submit it to my teacher.
• She asked her friend to proofread her resume to check for any mistakes.

Making changes to a text to improve its content, structure, clarity, and style. This goes beyond just correcting errors; it involves refining and rewriting parts of the text.

• The author spent several weeks editing the manuscript to make the story more engaging.
• Her job involves editing articles to ensure they are well-written and informative.

Reviewing and making substantial changes to a text to improve its content. This can involve rethinking major elements, making significant additions or deletions, and reorganizing the text.

• After receiving feedback from her professor, she started the revision of her thesis.
• The book went through multiple revisions before it was finally published.

Reviewing a document or text to ensure it meets specific criteria or requirements. This can include checking for accuracy, completeness, and adherence to guidelines.

• Before submitting the report, Tom spent an hour checking all the figures and data.
• She is responsible for checking the quality of the translations.