FAQs

What is proofreading?

Doesn’t my spell-checker on my computer do the same thing?

What countries do you deal with?

What if English isn’t my first language?

What kind of clients do you have?

Do you do translations?

How much does it cost?

How do I pay?

Do I have to pay in advance?

In what format can I send my text?

How do I know my writing will remain confidential?

Isn’t your job a bit boring?

  • What is proofreading?
    Proofreading, in its simplest terms, is checking a text in order to ensure that the correct spelling, punctuation, grammar and layout are used. Proofreading Guy will also edit your text, check for consistency of style, suggest alternative ways to make your point if you so wish or take the information you provide and compile it into a coherent piece of writing.
  • Doesn’t my spell-checker on my computer do the same thing?
    No. It will only go so far. For example, it won’t check for meaning or if the words you have written are suitable for the text as a whole. Proofreading Guy will do that as well as improving the structure, clarity and impact of what you are saying. No software app has yet been invented for that!
  • What countries do you deal with?
    Proofreading Guy deals with clients from all over the world and on every continent. Simply e-mail us on info@proofreadingguy.com
  • What if English isn’t my first language?
    No problem. Proofreading Guy has been working with students of English as a Second Language for many years. Trying to write what you want to say in your native language is difficult enough – doing it in another language can be extremely difficult and frustrating. Proofreading Guy makes sure that your writing is indistinguishable from that of a native speaker.
  • What kind of clients do you have?
    Basically, anybody who needs the written word checked! From writers, publishers and web designers to students and job applicants. From large organisations such as the European Commission to small companies or individuals looking to make an impact with their writing.
  • Do you do translations?
    No, but we can certainly recommend translators for you.
  • How much does it cost?
    The main factor in deciding how much a job costs is how quickly the job is required and the amount of time it takes - this depends on the length and complexity of the writing and what exactly is required. As a guide only, the Society for Editors and Proofreaders in the UK publishes suggested rates in UK Pounds here but Proofreading Guy will always agree a price with you before starting the work.
  • How do I pay?
    The most common way to pay is where Proofreading Guy sends you an invoice by email and you click a button on the email to pay by Credit or Debit Card. Payment is normally in Euros but Proofreading Guy will work with what suits you best.
  • Do I have to pay in advance?
    It depends on the size of the job. Proofreading Guy will set out a payment option that suits you best.
  • In what format can I send my text?
    Proofreading Guy receives text in a whole variety of formats. Microsoft Word is the most common and the changes to the text can be highlighted in Word for the client to easily identify what needs to be changed. Comments can also be inserted in Word with suggestions that can be accepted or rejected.
  • How do I know my writing will remain confidential?
    Proofreading Guy understands the importance of security for a writer or any creative person’s work and guarantees the confidentiality of any writing submitted.
  • Isn’t your job a bit boring?
    Not at all. Essentially, this job involves helping people – whether it is someone writing a book, starting a new business on the web or applying for a new job – and it is therefore a very rewarding career!
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Web Content

There is so much information on the web nowadays that getting people around the world to view your page is difficult in itself.

So when you do get visitors to your website, you want to make an immediate impression and a lasting impact so that people will keep coming back.

Errors and inconsistencies in the text or layout won’t help you to create the impression you’re looking for.

Proofreading Guy can help you make sure you connect with your visitors so that they become regulars.

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Students

If you have a project, report or submission, maximising your result is important and Proofreading Guy can help you gain a competitive advantage.

Errors in the text look careless and create the wrong impression and a second pair of eyes will correct the mistakes so that your work is assessed on what you say not how you say it.

If you have a deadline coming up, Proofreading Guy can turn projects around quickly – and overnight if required.

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Speakers of English as a Second Language

Proofreading Guy has been working with students of English for many years.

Trying to write what you want to say in your native language is difficult enough – doing it in another language can be extremely difficult and frustrating.

Proofreading Guy makes sure that your written English is at the same level as that of a native speaker.

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Guarantee

Proofreading Guy understands the importance of security for a writer or any creative person’s work and guarantees the confidentiality of any writing submitted.

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Take a Proofreading Test

So you think this stuff is easy?

Try a proofreading test for yourself.

The Society for Editors and Proofreaders have compiled a quick test here

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Plain English

We all have experience of letters and emails from institutions and organisations that are impossibly difficult to understand.

Sometimes it’s almost like they don’t want you to understand!

Proofreading Guy supports the campaign for Plain English against gobbledygook, jargon and misleading public information.

Everyone should have access to clear and concise information.

For more details on this click here.

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Creative Network

Here are some links you may find useful.

Sign Manufacturing: www.nationalsignco.ie
Polish Translator: www.polish-translation.biz
John Nolan, artist: www.nolanart.com
Fredrick and The Golden Dawn, music: Fredrick and The Golden Dawn