Proofreading Services
Professional quality assurance for your typeset pages — catching what copyediting missed, backed by over 50 years of dependable experience.
What Is Proofreading?
As a quality assurance necessity, most traditional publishers require professional proofreading as a mandatory step before printing may begin. The proofreader is not a copyeditor; instead, he or she reviews typeset pages for style and page makeup.
With a word-for-word read, they check for typos, punctuation errors, and inconsistencies that may have been previously missed in copyediting.
What a Proofreader Checks
- Typographical errors and typos
- Punctuation errors and inconsistencies
- Style and page makeup
- Omissions and missing pages
- Awkward word or page breaks
- Adherence to client-approved specs
Why Trust Xcel with Your Proofreading?
Over 45 years of dependable experience!
At Xcel, every publication we typeset undergoes a Production Read. Our proofreader will cross-check for quality before your book proofs are returned to you. We compare the original edited copy to the preliminary proof, ensuring there are no omissions or missing pages. Our proofreader corrects awkward word or page breaks and confirms that the book is completed to client-approved specs.
Production Read
Included with every typeset publication
- Cross-checks quality before proofs are returned
- Compares original edited copy to preliminary proof
- Verifies no omissions or missing pages
- Corrects awkward word or page breaks
- Confirms completion to client-approved specs
Professional Read
Optional thorough deep-read service
- Word-for-word review of your entire document
- Recommended changes tracked — not applied directly
- Submitted back to you for approval before revisions
- You retain full control over every change
- Ideal for publications requiring extra precision
Copyediting vs. Proofreading
Understanding the difference is key to a polished publication.
Copyediting
Works on your copy — the raw written material. Focuses on grammar, word usage, consistency, and adherence to publishing standards. Happens before typesetting.
Proofreading
Works on your proof — the typeset pages. Focuses on typos, punctuation, style, page makeup, and layout consistency. Happens after typesetting.
Costly Mistakes
Missed mistakes on a final product can be costly — reprints, corrections, and delays add up quickly.
Distracted Readers
Errors distract readers from your message, undermining the credibility and impact of your content.
Tarnished Reputation
Errors risk tarnishing your reputation as a professional writer and publisher in the eyes of your audience.