Exploring Writing - Gary Robert Muschla 2011

Exercise 4.2 Proofreading on a Screen
Proofreading and Computer Screens
Part 4. Proofreading

Computers have made the work of most writers easier. The capabilities of the machines for writing and revising are without question. But proofreading on a computer screen can cause problems for writers.

Reading text on a computer screen can be trying to the eyes. Some writers tend to read material less carefully than they do printed text on paper. In addition, text on paper has a different “look” from text on a screen. When authors read text on paper, most are more likely to concentrate and examine words and punctuation with greater care.

Of course, some writers do quite well proofing on a computer screen. You may eventually fall into this category. Growing up with computers will help you be comfortable in writing, revising, and proofreading written material on a screen.

Exercise 4.2 Proofreading on a Screen

Following are guidelines for proofreading on a computer screen:

1. Read slowly and carefully. [Most people tend to read faster on a computer screen than a printed page.]

2. Use the cursor arrow to go through the text one line at a time.

3. Read every word of each line before going to the next line.

4. Concentrate on every piece of punctuation.

5. Use the print preview to check the page for paragraphs, skipped spaces, and unnecessary returns.

Proofread a finished piece on a computer screen for practice. If you are not comfortable proofing on a computer screen, print the material and proof the printed text.