---
title: Proofreading preferences
description: Proofreading is a second chance to examine text for typographical errors.
---

[The Colophon - Balfour Yearbooks Blog ](https://blog.balfour.com)

# [Proofreading preferences](https://blog.balfour.com/proofreading-preferences)

 Written by [Kel Lemons](https://blog.balfour.com/author/kel-lemons) | Mar 13, 2017 8:57:00 PM

*

Proofreading is a second chance to examine text for typographical errors. But it’s easy to skim past mistakes in grammar or spellling – ahem, spelling.*

**Consider the following when proofreading:**

- **Take some time away from the copy.** Whether it’s 30 minutes or a few days, stepping away makes it easier to recognize mistakes.
- **Proofread from printed pages.** It’s more difficult to catch mistakes on a computer screen.
- **Go somewhere quiet.**
- **Listen to music or chew gum.** Relieve the pressure of being constantly focused, but do it without too much distraction.
- **Avoid proofing under fluorescent lighting.** The flicker rate is slower; as a result, it is hard to pick up inconsistencies.
- **Check spelling** by using a computer spell check program or reading the text backwards.
- **Consult a student directory** to verify name spellings and grades.
- **Don’t proofread if you’re tired.**

*Bonus tip: *Using [proofreading marks](https://blog.balfour.com/hubfs/Proofreading%20marks.pdf) will help make the editing process smoother and quicker.

[View full post](https://blog.balfour.com/proofreading-preferences)

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