Proofreaders and Copy Markers

Read transcript or proof type setup to detect and mark for correction any grammatical, typographical, or compositional errors. Excludes workers whose primary duty is editing copy. Includes proofreaders of braille.

What you'd actually do

• Mark copy to indicate and correct errors in type, arrangement, grammar, punctuation, or spelling, using standard printers' marks.
• Read corrected copies or proofs to ensure that all corrections have been made.
• Correct or record omissions, errors, or inconsistencies found.
• Compare information or figures on one record against same data on other records, or with original copy, to detect errors.
• Route proofs with marked corrections to authors, editors, typists, or typesetters for correction or reprinting.
• Consult reference books or secure aid of readers to check references with rules of grammar and composition.

How you get there

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).

The feel of the work

You're around people constantly; time pressure is a real part of the job; precision matters — small details carry weight. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)

Working for yourself

About 31.2% of proofreaders and copy markers are self-employed.

Who it tends to fit

This work tends to fit people who are organized and detail-focused and creative.

Related careers

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• Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
• Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping
• Procurement Clerks

Quick questions

How much does a proofreaders and copy marker make?

The median pay is $24.58 per hour — roughly $51,000 a year, with the real range running from about $16.59/hr (10th percentile) to $38.12/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Do you need a degree to be a proofreaders and copy marker?

The typical entry-level education is: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation level: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).

What does a proofreaders and copy marker actually do all day?

Mark copy to indicate and correct errors in type, arrangement, grammar, punctuation, or spelling, using standard printers' marks. Read corrected copies or proofs to ensure that all corrections have been made. Correct or record omissions, errors, or inconsistencies found.