What Does a Proofreader Do?
A proofreader reviews written content for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and formatting errors, ensuring that all published materials meet quality standards before they reach their intended audience.
Other Job Titles for This Work
Workers in this occupation report titles such as Copy Editor, Copyholder, Editorial Assistant, News Copy Editor, Proofer, Typesetter.
Proofreader Duties and Responsibilities
The primary responsibilities of a proofreader include:
- Review written content for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors
- Check formatting, layout, and consistency across documents
- Verify facts, dates, names, and figures for accuracy
- Ensure content follows the organization style guide and brand standards
- Compare final proofs against original manuscripts or approved versions
- Mark corrections using standard proofreading symbols or digital tools
- Collaborate with writers and editors on revisions and clarifications
- Maintain knowledge of current grammar rules and style conventions
- Review digital and print materials including web content, brochures, and reports
- Meet deadlines while maintaining quality standards
Required Skills and Qualifications
To succeed as a proofreader, you will need the following skills and qualifications:
- Exceptional grammar, spelling, and punctuation knowledge
- Sharp attention to detail and concentration
- Familiarity with style guides (AP, Chicago, APA)
- Proficiency with proofreading tools and software
- Strong reading comprehension
- Time management for handling multiple projects
- Communication skills for providing constructive feedback
- Ability to maintain focus during repetitive tasks
Education and Training
A bachelor's degree in English, journalism, communications, or a related field. Proofreading certifications from organizations like the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) are beneficial.
Salary and Job Outlook
Average Salary: $38,000 - $58,000 per year
Proofreaders are needed across publishing, marketing, legal, and corporate communications. Freelance opportunities are abundant. Advancement paths include copy editing, content editing, and editorial management.
What the Work Is Like
O*NET surveys people who work as proofreaders and copy markers about their daily conditions. Of those surveyed:
- 100% spend more than half the workday sitting
- 95% say being exact and accurate is very or extremely important
- 86% say teamwork is very or extremely important in their job
- 84% use email every day
- 79% work indoors in a climate-controlled space every day
- 75% work against deadlines every day
- 72% use their hands on tools, objects or controls for more than half the day
Education Workers Say the Job Needs
| Education level | Share of workers |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's degree | 47% |
| Associate's degree | 23% |
| Some college | 12% |
| Post-secondary certificate | 6% |
Tools and Software Proofreaders Use
Tools and equipment
Software
Is This Job a Good Fit for You?
People who do well in this job tend to enjoy organized work with data, records and clear procedures as well as creative work and self-expression.
Skills O*NET rates most important: Reading Comprehension, Writing, Speaking, Active Listening, Critical Thinking, Monitoring.
Knowledge areas used most: English Language, Communications and Media, Computers and Electronics, Administrative, Administration and Management.
Preparation: O*NET places this occupation in Job Zone 4 of 5, which means considerable preparation.
Related Careers
These jobs use similar skills, according to O*NET's related-occupation data:
Applying for a Proofreader Job
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Sources
- O*NET 30.1 Database, occupation 43-9081.00 (Proofreaders and Copy Markers). View on O*NET OnLine.
This page includes information from the O*NET 30.1 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. The Job Explorer has modified some of the information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed or tested these changes.