If you write an article, blog, leaflet or memo about an area that you know well, you can give it a quick read through and publish. What could go wrong? Why do I need a proofreader? Proofreaders are the people that exist in the shadows. They are the ones that take a piece of well-written writing and elevate it into something better (that’s what a good editor does but more of that in another blog post).
A proofreader provides the final checks on your copy. Their motto is: consistency and error free, or it should be. They will agonise over a misplaced comma; wrestle over capitalisation; and, frequently, deal with the misuse of words including homophones.
What are homophones?
Homophones are words which are pronounced the same way but spelt differently and have different meanings. Many writers, even good ones, occasionally get tripped up by homophones. Spell checkers and online grammar tools are a great support to any writer, but they often miss homophones and if you don’t want too (see what I did there) miss them, your copy should be checked carefully.
There, their,they’re. Don’t worry
Auditorily, they are identical, but there meaning is completely different.
There is no doubt clear writing matters
There is an adverb used to indicate place and direction, which can be used as a prepositional phrase, or a pronoun. If in doubt, consider how you would use each ‘there’ in a sentence to help avoid confusion or mistakes. Dan is over there next to the linesman.
Their love for one another was found in those small moments of intimacy
Their is a possessive pronoun which means ‘belonging to them’. As I tell my students, their contains the word ‘heir’ to show ownership. Their idea of the perfect holiday was lying on a golden beach drinking margaritas as the kids played in the surf.
They’re two of the best people I know
The final ‘they’re’ is the easiest to conquer as it is a contracted form of two words: they + are. They’re always late, so we should start eating without them.
If you are still asking yourself, Why do I need a proofreader? (I’m asking this question AGAIN for SEO reasons). It is to help you focus on your message, but be reassured that your copy is error free. Proofreaders can ensure you are using language accurately so your writing and message is clear.
For clearer copy visit Clear Copy UK.