Reviewing Proofs

What is a proof? It is simply something to be examined and approved to move forward to the next stage. There are a couple of different types of proofs in the publishing process. The three most basic types of proofs are galley, page, and printer proofs.

A galley proof is typeset text placed in a single column before it is composed into pages. Typeset means composed in the typeface and font with the line spacing as it will appear in the final product. When reviewing galley proofs, closely examine the text for any errors. This is also the stage where any remaining subjective changes should be made. After the galley proof is approved, the project moves to page composition. Traditionally, the galley proof is generated after the edit of the manuscript is complete. However, the galley proof stage has largely disappeared from publishing due to the computerized publishing process, although some publishers may still have a stage referred to as galley proofs. In practice today, the final edited manuscript in a word processor document is considered a galley proof, even though it is not typeset.

A page proof is the typeset text and any illustrations composed into final-form pages. At this stage, changes are usually limited to errors, either in text, illustration, or composition. Review the page proofs for any such errors. Be sure to check headers, footers, and folios as well. Also review the pages for the overall appearance. It may be beneficial to review each page individually and then, as a last step, review each spread. A spread consists of a verso (left-hand page) and its corresponding recto (right-hand page). Subjective changes may not be prohibited at this stage, but they are discouraged due to the increased cost of alterations over the galley proof stage. Depending on the scope of a subjective change made by the author at this stage, the cost of the alteration may be charged back to the author at the publisher’s discretion. The page proof is the last opportunity to review pages prior to sending the book to the printer and is the last time the author will see the pages before the book is printed.

The printer proof is similar to a page proof, except it is generated by the printer, not the layout software. In fact, the printer proof and the page proof should look identical. If not, there was a problem translating the layout files into the printer files. That is the purpose of the printer proof stage, to look for any issues in translation. Look for font substitutions, symbol substitutions, color issues, artwork problems, or missing text or artwork. Also, and this may sound simplistic, make sure the book starts on page 1 and continues sequentially through the end of the book. This is the last time the pages will be seen before the book is printed. Changes at this stage are expensive and will be limited to errors. Subjective changes will not be made. Authors do not review printer proofs.

Tin Whiskers Publisher is a member of the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA). IBPA’s mission is “to lead and serve the independent publishing community by providing advocacy, education, and tools for success.” IBPA is a not-for-profit membership organization serving and leading the independent publishing community. Founded in 1983, it is the largest publishing trade organization in the United States. IBPA members pledge to uphold the organization’s code of ethics.