What is Proofreading and when exactly do you need it?

Jul 4
16:43

2013

Charlene Lacandazo

Charlene Lacandazo

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Proofreading is one of those concepts that everybody has heard about and thinks that they understand. Often, however people's understanding is very different from what is actually happening.

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Many translators and translation companies make sure that they give their customers a professional translation service by giving every client the opportunity to have their translations proofread properly. But,What is Proofreading and when exactly do you need it? Articles what does proofreading really mean, and how do you know if your language documents need it?

Proofreading is usually used when a linguist or translation agency is dealing with translations or publications of writings in one language. It is the process of reviewing the entire translation work for spelling, grammar, punctuation and formatting errors. Although proofreading is essential in the translation process, translators don’t always value its importance; as a result, most often the quality of the translated document is poor.

Some translators and translation agencies believe that proofreading is the most significant process in translation. This is because through proofreading, translators can definitely make sure that your document has undergone editing and revising as well, so as to get the most accurate translation of your text.

Sometimes, translators are convinced that even though your translated document has been proofread already, there are some instances where your document has a need to undergo additional proofreading. So, what is additional proofreading and when exactly you need that?

Usually, additional proofreading is performed by a second skilled and professional translator, who is knowledgeable in the same translation field. Additional proofreading is needed when the document tackles sensitive and delicate subject matters , such as legal cases and scientific topics. It should be remembered that the translated document should be understood and well-rendered into the target culture of a language.

In most situations, a translator knows exactly when a language document needs to undergo anadditional proofreadingprocess. If the original language contains some details that may not be entirely clear, or are particularly hard to translate into the target language, translators usually contact the client in making sure about the topic and details of the document. Thus, translators need to redouble their efforts to make sure that translated document is accurate and a mirror copy of the original document. This is how additional proofreading is necessary during the translation process.

Proofreading is a vital process in translation; and if it is not applied for every translated document, the translation process is incomplete and unreliable. Ensuring the accuracy and quality of the translated document will not be achieved without proper and thorough proofreading of the document. The only way to ensure that the translation process is complete, is to hire a reputable translation agency who can proofread, edit and revise your document. Your document may even need additional proofreading to make sure of the quality of your translated document.