Is your client cringing because you missed an error you were meant to proofread? Does your revision sound much worse than the original writing, giving you the feeling you should just bow down and cry? Face it: proofreading may be a tough grind at times, yet it is always an interesting challenge. Here are ten things to keep in mind to ensure your work stays professional.

Number One: Avoid Excessiveness in Wordplay

As an editor, noticing the same word being used over and over again is a major red flag. To fix this, mark each repeated word as you read. If a word appears four or more times in a short section, it’s time for a change. Either omit the repeated words and revise the sentence, or use a synonym to keep the writing fresh.

Number Two: Verify Originality

Plagiarism is a nasty habit that can destroy a reputation. Use online tools to determine whether a piece is original or fresh writing. Beyond just the words, pay close attention to the writer’s unique style—consistency is key.

Number Three: Maintain Style Consistency

Everyone has a unique voice, but is the author being consistent? Watch for sudden shifts in character focus, word choice, or biased perspectives. Ensure the author is utilizing their own vision rather than simply mimicking someone else.

Number Four: Stick With the Topic

If a publication is centered on a specific theme, the content must remain consistent. If you are editing a music magazine and the author writes an entire section on the films of the Wachowskis without a musical connection, it needs to be adjusted. Have the writer pivot to the music featured in those films instead.

Number Five: Validate Your Quotes

A quote adds authority to a piece, but only if it is accurate and relevant. Always verify that the person actually said what is being attributed to them. Ensure the quote adds value to the topic at hand.

Number Six: Watch Those Damn Homonyms

Horrendous errors occur when words are misused. Pay close attention to homonyms, or your writing could become one wild maze of errors. Catching these "silent" mistakes is what separates a professional editor from an amateur.

Number Seven: Read It One More Time

After you’ve finished, read the piece again! It is easy to miss a small error on the first pass. Read a piece two or even three times to ensure perfection. If possible, step away for a few hours and return with fresh eyes before the final check.

Number Eight: Listen to Your Voice

One of the most classic pieces of proofreading advice is to read the work aloud. Using your voice helps you catch rhythmic errors and awkward phrasing that your eyes might skip over.

Number Nine: Stray Away From Distractions

Put away the smartphone and leave social media for later. Proofreading requires deep concentration. While soft jazz might help some focus, avoid music with lyrics that might compete with the words you are editing.

Number Ten: Prioritize Spelling and Grammar

Lastly, be hyper-attentive to spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Keep a dictionary or a reliable web resource nearby to double-check anything you are unsure of. These fundamentals are the backbone of all good writing.