Originally Posted by Cran

Hi Vitalis, and welcome ...
the world could use more good proofers and subbies.

If you do go ahead and find yourself working with writers and editors in the real world, you'll need to be familiar with the track changes and overview operations of your word processor (usually MS Word or compatible). It would be a good idea to practice with at least the track changes.

One reason for this approach is that it is the least disruptive to the original work - it's poor form to rewrite another's work unless you've been given the express authority to do so (that seems to matter less here on the forums than it would in the professional market). And, because you'll most likely be working cooperatively, it allows the writer (or supervising editor) to see exactly what change you're proposing, and why.

For large pieces, like long scenes or chapters, it's best (in these forum discussions) to break the quotes and comments into manageable chunks - about 3 pars or a handful of comments per section. In real situations, this doesn't arise because your comments are visible on the right of the main text, or internally linked and flagged.

I've linked a couple of examples below - unfortunately, the ealier examples, where I've proofed a chapter or two, have fallen off the archives radar - I've been focussing more on poetry (because I do enough of the other when I'm working).

http://www.writingforums.com/poetry/...ml#post1014612


http://www.writingforums.com/poetry/...ml#post1009429

Originally Posted by BlueLucario

Do you really proofread for free? Or is there a catch?

Originally Posted by Non Serviam

The way I understand it . . . she would like to . . . create samples of her proofreading work here, to help with her resume.

Originally Posted by The Backward OX

Possibly Cran has, to judge from some of his words, also mis-read the OP.

Originally Posted by Vitalis

I am just breaking into the proofreading and copyediting world and trying to gain as much experience as possible to add to my resume...

Originally Posted by Vitalis

You can view some of my work in the Critique section.

Originally Posted by Non Serviam

The way I understand it, Vitalis proofreads for free for the same reason you write for free. I understand from her post that she would like to build her knowledge, credibility and portfolio and maybe create samples of her proofreading work here, to help with her resume.

I think it's a generous and very valuable offer that benefits both sides. I don't see a catch.

However, following experiences with a user who's now left the site, wf.com has had to formulate a detailed policy about soliciting email contact. I suggest that you be careful who you email and whose advice you trust.