All About Proofreaders and Copy Markers
Occupation Description Read transcript or proof type setup to detect and mark for correction any grammatical, typographical, or compositional errors. Includes proofreaders of Braille.
Life As a Proofreader or Copy Marker
- Consult reference books or secure aid of readers to check references with rules of grammar and composition.
- Read proof sheets aloud, calling out punctuation marks and spelling unusual words and proper names.
- Write original content such as headlines, cutlines, captions, and cover copy.
- Read corrected copies or proofs to ensure that all corrections have been made.
- Typeset and measure dimensions, spacing, and positioning of page elements, such as copy and illustrations, to verify conformance to specifications, using printer’s ruler or layout software.
- Archive documents, conduct research, and read copy, using the internet and various computer programs.
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Things a Proofreader or Copy Marker Should Know How to Do
These are the skills Proofreaders and Copy Markers say are the most useful in their careers:
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Related Job Titles
- News Copy Editor
- Digital Content Coordinator
- Format Proofreader
- Content Editor
- Clerical Proofreader
Is There Job Demand for Proofreaders and Copy Markers?
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 14,200 jobs in the United States for Proofreader or Copy Marker. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 1.4% which is below the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 200 new jobs for Proofreader or Copy Marker by 2026. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 2,200 job openings in this field each year.

The states with the most job growth for Proofreader or Copy Marker are New Hampshire, Idaho, and Minnesota. Watch out if you plan on working in Maine, Kentucky, or Missouri. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Do Proofreaders and Copy Markers Make A Lot Of Money?
Proofreaders and Copy Markers make between $23,220 and $63,080 a year.

Proofreaders and Copy Markers who work in Washington, Maryland, or District of Columbia, make the highest salaries.
How much do Proofreaders and Copy Markers make in each U.S. state?
State | Annual Mean Salary |
---|---|
Arizona | $42,180 |
California | $44,250 |
Colorado | $39,680 |
Connecticut | $38,130 |
District of Columbia | $56,640 |
Florida | $36,350 |
Georgia | $30,120 |
Idaho | $28,010 |
Illinois | $48,060 |
Indiana | $37,430 |
Iowa | $29,490 |
Kansas | $33,660 |
Kentucky | $37,540 |
Maine | $30,060 |
Maryland | $54,780 |
Massachusetts | $41,930 |
Michigan | $37,290 |
Minnesota | $39,910 |
Missouri | $34,810 |
Montana | $42,630 |
Nebraska | $33,290 |
Nevada | $43,990 |
New Hampshire | $38,020 |
New Jersey | $48,170 |
New York | $46,370 |
North Carolina | $44,730 |
Oregon | $48,520 |
Pennsylvania | $37,340 |
South Carolina | $37,070 |
Tennessee | $34,590 |
Utah | $39,440 |
Vermont | $33,940 |
Virginia | $40,510 |
Washington | $53,490 |
Wisconsin | $43,240 |
What Tools & Technology do Proofreaders and Copy Markers Use?
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Proofreaders and Copy Markers:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Access
- Adobe Systems Adobe Acrobat
- Microsoft Visio
- Adobe Systems Adobe Photoshop
- FileMaker Pro
- Adobe Systems Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Systems Adobe InDesign
- Adobe Systems Adobe Dreamweaver
- WordPress
- Adobe Systems Adobe After Effects
- Adobe Systems Adobe FrameMaker
- Adobe Systems Adobe Captivate
- Avid Technology Media Composer
- Apple iWork Keynote
- Bugzilla
Becoming a Proofreader or Copy Marker
Education needed to be a Proofreader or Copy Marker:

How Long Does it Take to Become a Proofreader or Copy Marker?

Proofreaders and Copy Markers Sector

The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.

References:
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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