What You'll Do

  • Correct or record omissions, errors, or inconsistencies found.
  • Mark copy to indicate and correct errors in type, arrangement, grammar, punctuation, or spelling, using standard printers' marks.
  • Read corrected copies or proofs to ensure that all corrections have been made.
  • Compare information or figures on one record against same data on other records, or with original copy, to detect errors.
  • Consult reference books or secure aid of readers to check references with rules of grammar and composition.
  • Route proofs with marked corrections to authors, editors, typists, or typesetters for correction or reprinting.
  • Read proof sheets aloud, calling out punctuation marks and spelling unusual words and proper names.
  • Consult with authors and editors regarding manuscript changes and suggestions.
  • Archive documents, conduct research, and read copy, using the internet and various computer programs.
  • Write original content, such as headlines, cutlines, captions, and cover copy.

Essential Skills

Reading Comprehension 4.25/5
Writing 3.62/5
Speaking 3.25/5
Active Listening 3.12/5
Critical Thinking 3.0/5
Monitoring 2.88/5
Time Management 2.75/5
Active Learning 2.5/5
Judgment and Decision Making 2.5/5
Complex Problem Solving 2.38/5
Quality Control Analysis 2.38/5
Social Perceptiveness 2.25/5

Career Fit Overview

Use this summary to sense whether the day to day rhythm and focus of this path line up with what energizes you.

Top passions

  • Organizer: Bringing order to data and processes satisfies you.
  • Artist: Creating original work and expressing ideas feels natural.
  • Analyst: Investigating problems and finding patterns keeps you engaged.

Common styles

Attention to Detail, Dependability, Integrity, Independence, Cooperation

Want a personal read on fit. Take the free assessment and see your exact compatibility with this career and many related roles.

Key Abilities

This career demands strong capabilities in the following areas:

Written Comprehension 4.38/5
Near Vision 3.88/5
Oral Comprehension 3.75/5
Written Expression 3.62/5
Oral Expression 3.5/5
Problem Sensitivity 3.25/5
Deductive Reasoning 3.12/5
Perceptual Speed 3.12/5

Technologies & Tools

Adobe Acrobat Adobe After Effects Adobe Captivate Adobe Dreamweaver Adobe FrameMaker Adobe Illustrator Adobe InCopy Adobe InDesign Adobe Photoshop After the Deadline Apple Final Cut Pro Apple iWork Keynote AutoCrit Editing Wizard Avid Technology Media Composer Bugzilla Elite Minds RightWriter File transfer protocol FTP client software FileMaker Pro Grammarly Editor HP Autonomy TeamSite

Work Environment & Style

Common Styles for This Career

  • Attention to Detail (High importance: 5.0/5)
  • Dependability (High importance: 4.65/5)
  • Integrity (High importance: 4.42/5)
  • Independence (High importance: 4.17/5)
  • Cooperation (High importance: 4.06/5)

Want to see how YOUR work style matches this career?

Take Free 15-Min Assessment →

How to Become One

Most employers require a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Some positions may also require experience through internships, co-ops, or entry-level work to strengthen your candidacy.

Similar Careers to Explore

Also Known As

This career is known by many different job titles across industries. Here are all the variations:

Braille Proofreader Checker Clerical Proofreader Content Coordinator Copy Coordinator Copy Editor Copy Holder Copy Preparer Copy Reader Copyholder Copyman Data Examination Clerk Data Reviewer Digital Content Coordinator Editorial Assistant Format Proofreader Legal Proofreader News Copy Editor Online Content Coordinator Production Proofreader Proofer Proofreader Technical Writer Typesetter