Proofreading

When translating a text, the translator often doesn’t see the text in context, with the titles, the captions, the images and thus the translation might not be totally consistent and matching the context. Furthermore, the person doing the final layout of the translated text might not speak the language of the document and might introduce typing mistakes (such as deleting letters, sentences or full paragraphs). Proofreading consists of reading the final approved translation in the final layout (Web page, screen shoot or printed document) to ensure that that page, document, flier or video is flawless, that it relays perfectly the intended original message in a consistent and natural language attracting to the reader and creating the impact initially intended.

When is a proofreading needed?

Proofreading is a must when the translator can’t read/see the final file in his CAT tool and the file does have a fancy typesetting (for example Marketing items done in InDesign, manuals in AuthorsIT, Web pages, etc.). It should also be done for very sensitive items which must be perfect. Proofreading should always be done in the final document, with the final layout. And as a good measure, the final-final text should be exported and spellchecked to ensure no typos have been introduced by the typesetter inputting the corrections.

As a result – the translation will communicate perfectly to the reader in his language and the content will create exactly the impact you desired!