By Have you just completed your written academic task? If yes, you have to stop right there and know the last step. Want to know what it is? Well, yes, you got it right. It’s to edit and proofreading it.
After spending hours or even days, once you get the final copy of your academic task, the relief is unmatched! After that, this major step comes in.
It’s a very common misconception to comprehend both. However, there are differences between them.
But what are they? In this guide, we will discuss these differences in detail and also find out when to edit or proofread the content.
Is Editing and Proofreading the Same?
No, editing and proofreading are two different steps. However, these terms are often used interchangeably.
In addition, indeed, both demand careful and close reading. However, the aim and techniques vary.
What is Editing?
Editing aims to improve the overall quality of the content. In addition, it includes structure, clarity, style, etc. Moreover, it begins soon after completing the draft and involves the thorough reading of the content. Thus, one needs to maintain a logical flow between the paragraphs and also back up your arguments.
Here’s how you can edit on various levels:
Content
Every kind of academic task comes with certain rules and guidelines. So, once you have completed your writing task, make sure to cross-check that you have implemented all the given guidelines.
For example, if your assignment is completely based on providing relevant evidence then you have to be careful with it.
Have I supported each point with adequate evidence? Is all of the information in my paper relevant to the assignment and the overall writing goal? Always ask yourself these questions during editing.
Structure of the content
Structuring the content is crucial. A basic structure includes an introduction paragraph, main body, and conclusion. However, it depends on the type of academic task as well.
Does the content have all the necessary sections? Have you clearly stated the main argument in the introduction? Are the paragraphs arranged logically?
Thus, make sure to know the required content outline and follow it perfectly. Moreover, you can also get editing proofreading services from experts and make the most of their skills.
Paragraph structure
Another vital element is to check the structure of the paragraphs. At this step, you must check if the content of the paragraph is right on the track.
Does every paragraph have a clear topic statement? Is there any extra or less information in the paragraphs?
As a result, always get answers to these questions before you move on to the next point.
Spelling and Logical Sense
Some topics or subjects are really tough. For example, if you have to write a medical assignment or report then you will have to use difficult words as well. Thus, while editing, make sure to recheck the spellings of those words. In addition, ensure the logical sense of the sentences. For example, avoid discussing more than one element in a sentence.
Clarity
Let’s assume this: you are reading an academic task that is full of complicated terminologies. In addition, there are never-ending short forms and abbreviations as well (these are unclear to you). Would you prefer to read it any further or understand the context? I guess, not.
Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure clarity in the content. In addition, you must use simple and clear language
Also, make a separate section to provide the list of abbreviations for better understanding.
What is Proofreading?
Proofreading can be defined as the final step of the editing process. Once you are done with the editing and writing process, now you only check for minor errors. However, the pro tip is to proofread the drafts after editing them.
Typographical errors
When it comes to proofreading, it’s nothing but to look for typographical errors. These include grammar, punctuation, spelling, and typos.
Indeed, even pro writers make mistakes and the only way around is to first write the content and give yourself a few hours or days (if you have got time). Additionally, it aids in having a fresh look on the content and detect the errors effortlessly.
Is Proofreading Really Important?
I know most of you would be wondering why proofreading is really important. Like obviously, why would anyone notice that a sentence doesn’t have a comma or any other punctuation mark?
Well, it might sound like that’s not a big deal but actually it is. Readers can be super annoyed just by these errors despite how beautiful and perfect your content is.
Also, you have worked hard to achieve success. From topic selection to research, writing drafts to finalizing the content, you have come a long way. So why would you want to lose all your hard work just due to some silly errors, right?
As a result, proofreading really matters!
Difference Between Proofreading and Editing
| Proofreading | Editing |
| It is done after finalizing the content | Edit the first draft of the content till to the point where the draft is completed |
| Addresses minor issues | Addresses the core features of the content |
| Removes spelling, punctuation, grammar, and related errors | Improves the overall quality of the content by fixing readability, clarity, style, etc |
| It does not include word count reduction | It might include word count reduction |
| Needs less time | Requires more time |
Final Words
Proofreading and editing are the two most vital steps of writing. Despite these terms being used interchangeably, it’s important to know that they are completely different.
Editing process is the major chunk where you have to check the content flow, structure, clarity, and other vital elements that can make or break your task.
On the other hand, proofreading is done after completing the editing. In addition, it only involves fixing the grammatical errors. Thus, it improves the overall quality of the content.
For a beginner, it can be a little complicated to perform both these tasks. Therefore, you can also connect with experts and get their help.