Surface text errors consist of mistakes in spelling, punctuation, grammar, formatting, referencing and layout, explains proofreader Tiffany Markman. Every writer should catch these errors and correct them before submitting the text for editing. An editor will correct surface errors while editing the manuscript for factual and context mistakes. Ultimately, the proofreader serves as last line of defense in the publishing process and removes any remaining surface text errors in the final copy.
Editors earn their bread and butter by correcting deep-tissue context errors. Their primary duty is to rewrite text to make it flow better. They also fix factual errors, correct grammatical mistakes and ensure the text conforms to the publisher's or client's style. Editing mainly focuses on developing the text further, aside from cleaning up any obvious mistakes, according to writer Elly Naylor. Proofreaders never correct context errors but will note potential mistakes for an editor to review.
When a division of labor exists in the publishing process, the main difference between proofreading and editing boils down to focus. The editor's main goal is to make the text more readable on a large scale, which includes surface text as well as deep contextual errors. The proofreader, on the other hand, only looks for typographical errors that the editor might have missed, according to journalism professor and former editor, Dorothy Bowles.
Many freelance writers offer proofreading and editing as two separate services. Markman points out that she charges three times more for editing than for proofreading projects, mainly because it is significantly more labor-intensive. Moreover, the editing process includes proofreading the literary work as final step to ensure that the no typographical errors remain. Because misconceptions about these two services are common, Markman and other freelancers risk being paid proofreading rates for editing services. A clear definition of services and rates might prevent billing issues.