Page 192 - 4185
P. 192

192

                   3  Sentence Structure: Run-on sentences, comma splices, sentence
                      fragments
                   4  Regional  Differences:  UK  v.  US  English  spelling  and
                      punctuation

                        A proofreader may have specific duties that depend on the kind
               of document or the client. My favorite client sends a checklist to all
               proofreaders,  to  ensure  that  our  work  is  consistent  and  covers

               everything the client needs. After proofreading, the translation should
               be ready to use.

                      Who is the Editor/Proofreader?

                        So who do you contact for editing, proofreading, or both? Most
               translators include some amount of editing and proofreading in their

               workflow.  For  example,  when  I  translate  a  document,  I  always
               compare  my  translation  with  the  original  document.  I  check  it  for
               accuracy, and then I rewrite any part that doesn’t flow well in English.

               After  that,  I  proofread  the  entire  document  for  mechanical  and
               formatting errors.
                        For  some  documents,  this  process  is  sufficient.  If  the
               translation will only be distributed internally, you probably don’t need

               to  get  bogged  down  in  additional  editing.  However,  even  the  best
               translators  won’t  catch  every  error  in  their  own  work.  If  you  are
               translating marketing materials or other documents to be published, an

               independent  editor  and/or  proofreader  will  help  create  a  polished
               product.
                        The  editor  should  be  an  expert  in  both  languages,  while  the
               proofreader  may  be  monolingual.  The  editor  should  also  know  the

               subject matter deeply—nothing wastes your money like having errors
               introduced  in  the  editing  stage  after  paying  top dollar  for  an  expert
               translator. Proofreaders may or may not be experts on the subject, but

               they should be experts on the writing style guide used in-house and in
               your field.
                        When  requesting  editing  and  proofreading  services,  be  clear

               what it is you need. Define the service you are looking for and your
               requirements  for  the  person  who  carries  it  out.  When  it  doubt,  ask
               your language services provider to explain what is included in each

               service. Spending a little extra time at the outset will ensure a more
               accurate quote and the best translation for your needs.
   187   188   189   190   191   192   193   194   195   196   197