PATH WRITING AND STYLE GUIDE

PATH proofreader training

Introduction to the program

<< back to main menu

The overarching goal of proofreading is to protect PATH’s reputation for maintaining high standards in our work. Proofreading is required for external documents as outlined in the Procedures for External Communications Risk Review. Only PATH-trained proofreaders are eligible to proofread documents for formal Risk Review.

What is proofreading?

Proofreading at PATH involves correcting errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, format, and style; it also serves as a final check for noticeable inconsistencies or inaccuracies in information. Proofreading can occasionally overlap with copyediting, in which the proofreader fixes (or flags for the author) syntax and other sentence-level issues. Prior to submitting a document for proofreading, staff should ensure the material is as error-free as possible.

PATH's External Affairs division employs staff and freelance proofreaders whose services can be used across PATH.

What is editing?

Editing addresses major issues related to the content, flow, language, tone, and accuracy of written communications; it covers many of the same issues as proofreading but delves more deeply, with the editor potentially rewriting or restructuring problematic areas or adding text if necessary. As with proofreading, editing can occasionally overlap with copyediting, as determined by the needs of the document. Editing should be done prior to proofreading.

PATH's External Affairs division employs staff writers and editors whose services can be used across PATH.

The following instructions are for PATH staff only.

To become a PATH-trained proofreader:

  1. Study Section 1. Building a document and Section 2. Editing and proofreading of the style guide.
  2. Complete the proofreader self-assessment exercises.
  3. Contact Christine Waresak via email or Teams for the test document.
  4. Take the test, which is a ten-page document to proofread using Track Changes. It's open book, no time limit.
  5. Send the completed test back to Christine for scoring, along with a charge code.
  6. A passing grade is 70 percent; whether you pass or fail, you will meet to review the results.
  7. For those who do not pass, there is a second test you can take.