Guide · Proofreading & editing
Proofreading or editing: which text review do I need?
A text can be error-free yet difficult to read. The right choice depends on its purpose, current state and the depth of changes you want.
Reviewed on 28 October 2026
The short answer
Choose proofreading when spelling, grammar and punctuation are the priority and wording should largely stay as it is. Editing also addresses expression, flow and, within the agreed scope, structure. State which changes you want beforehand. Fact-checking, comparison with a source translation and particular specialist checks are agreed separately.
Proofreading: correct errors while preserving wording
Proofreading checks language errors within the agreed text scope. It particularly suits approved wording whose style and structure should not be extensively reworked.
A deliberately simple example illustrates the distinction: grammatical correction fixes the error without also shortening the cumbersome time expression.
- Original: “The results was sent on today’s date.”
- Proofread: “The results were sent on today’s date.”
Read more: in a language: proofreading service scope
Editing: work on readability and expression
Editing also considers word choice, sentence structure and transitions. The result should suit the reader and intended use. Existing meaning or your voice is not arbitrarily replaced by new claims.
The example can express the same meaning more concisely. In a longer text, repetition or unclear references may also need attention; specify the desired depth in the brief.
- Edited for style: “The results were sent today.”
Read more: in a language: editing scope and limits
Agree review scope and delivery beforehand
State the text type, audience, language, deadline and important instructions. Where wording has been formally approved, identify passages that may only be checked for errors. Supply the final file.
Agree the delivery format and handling of questions. If a translation needs checking against its original, provide both versions and expressly request that comparison. A monolingual review does not replace it.
Your next steps
Describe the text’s purpose and desired changes.
Choose proofreading or editing by depth of intervention.
Supply the final version, instructions and protected passages.
Agree delivery, deadline and additional checks.
More questions
Does editing include language-error correction?
Language corrections form part of the agreed scope. Discuss the desired depth against the actual text.
Does proofreading automatically check facts or sources?
No. Particular factual or source checking must be expressly agreed.
Which service do I need for translation comparison?
Specify the comparison and provide the original and translation. That scope is clarified separately.
Sources and further reading
Agree language, review depth and delivery against the final file and your instructions.
Choose the right text review
Choose proofreading or editing to suit your text. We can discuss scope where particular instructions apply.
Free, no registration and not yet an order. Scope and timing are agreed beforehand.