Proofreader how-to

How to Use Standard Proofreading Marks

Standard marks avoid confusion.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Standard marks avoid confusion. In short: learn; mark; mark, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Learn common marks.

  2. Mark in the margin.

  3. Mark in text.

  4. Use stet when needed.

  5. Write queries clearly.

  6. Keep marks neat.

Safety reminders for proofreaders

  • Take eye breaks
  • Use ergonomic setups
  • Protect confidential documents
  • Back up files

Style guide · Proof · Layout · Typography · Print-ready · Proofreading marks: see the full proofreader glossary.

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