The Differences Between Editor, Proofreader & Copy Marker

by Shelly Morgan

Careers in on-line and print publication include editing, proofreading and copy marking. All of these fields involve handling text, or copy, produced by other writers. Although there is substantial overlap between these areas, meaningful differences exist regarding the nature of the work, salary, and whether you are more likely to be freelancing or employed.


Proofreaders are employed by both print and online publications to check the work of other writers. Proofreading is a meticulous task because it involves evaluating every sentence for correct spelling, punctuation, usage, and grammar. Proofreaders typically are knowledgable about different stylistic guidelines such as the Associated Press Stylebook, the Chicago Manual of Style and Modern Language Association, or MLA requirements.

Copy Marker

A copy marker performs the same functions as a proofreader. "Forbes" magazine reports that as computer software has gotten better at detecting errors, the number of copy markers has declined. Copy markers often do freelance work for book publishers, public relations firms, advertising companies and newspaper publishers. Whether you call it copy marking or proofreading, the task calls for someone with a good eye for detail.


While some editorial jobs involve proofreading and copymarking, an editor's tasks are often very different. Speaking broadly, an editor is usually more concerned with content than whether is is grammatically correct. For example, an editor may be involved in acquiring particular works, developing the work from inception to completion, managing a staff of writers, or other projects. While salary is dependent upon the type of publication and the type of editing, editors are usually better paid than proofreaders or copy markers, and are less likely to work freelance.

Types of Editors

Many types of editors are found in the publishing industry. An acquisitions editor is involved in bringing new works or new authors to a publisher. An editor-in-chief is a managerial position concerned with maintaining the voice and standards of a publication, often by hiring writers and copy editors. An online editor deals only with content appearing on the Internet. Academic editors specialize in finding reviewers for highly technical submissions.

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