12 Editorial Resources I Use For Proofreading

People often wonder what professional proofreaders use for research, so I thought I’d share twelve that I reference regularly. These are the print and online editorial resources that are invaluable to me as a proofreader and editor. They’re what I use to do the majority of my research for various kinds of content, including blog posts and books.

I recommend you use them as the foundation of your proofreading arsenal. Some of these I access every day—the rest at least a couple times a week. These are also the standard resources for publishing houses, publications, editors, and writers. I also have a FREE proofreading resources pack for you to download that’ll show you how to fix some editorial errors!

Proofreaders are expected to be familiar with the first two on the list, The Chicago Manual of Style and The Associated Press Style Book. And since they’re an indication of your knowledge of language and proofreading, I also go over them in detail in my course High-Level Proofreading And Copyediting Pro.

1.  The Chicago Manual of Style, 17th Edition

This is the “bible” style book of the editing world, and a must-have for every proofreader. Chicago addresses word usage, grammar, punctuation, citation, numbers, and formatting. Basically everything related to printed words and then some. Available in print or online (paid subscription). There’s also a free 30-day online trial available. Note: the 17^th edition was just released, but you can absolutely still reference the 16^th edition if you already have a copy.

2.  The Associated Press Stylebook 2017: and Briefing on Media Law

Also known as The AP Stylebook, it is widely used by proofreaders, editors, and writers. It was originally intended for journalists, but many industry folks prefer it because it’s less dense and easier to navigate than Chicago. It’s regularly updated to reflect modern word usage, as well as social and political trends. Available in print, online, or ebook. (paid subscription)

3. The Elements of Style, Fourth Edition

Also affectionately known as “Strunk and White” after its authors, this classic style guide strives to teach people how to write in plain English. It’s not as extensive as Chicago or AP, but it’s a good read, and widely regarded as one of the most influential books on English style.

Free Proofreading Resources Pack

Want to know how to fix some of the most common errors found in content? Grab our free proofreading resources pack to learn how!

Download the pack here.

4. The Gregg Reference Manual: A Manual of Style, Grammar, Usage, and Formatting Tribute Edition

This style manual is the standard for proofreading and editing business communications. You’ll need this if you want to work for entrepreneurs and businesses. According to the site “For over 50 years this manual has been recognized as the best style manual for business professionals and for students who want to master the on-the-job standards of business professionals.”

FREE TRAINING

If you want to learn how you can start freelancing, I’m holding a FREE masterclass on proofreading, copyediting, and marketing.

You can register now by clicking here.

5. MLA Handbook

This book sets the standard of documentation style for colleges and universities, publishing houses, academic publications, scholars and students, and websites. You should reference this book if you’re proofreading any content that is academic or research based.

6. Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th ed.

This is America’s bestselling dictionary and the definitive one for any kind of content, including academic (it’s also referenced in Canada). It includes abbreviations, biographical names, and foreign words. The free online edition also has a thesaurus, illustrations, and tables. There’s also an app version that can be accessed offline.

7.  Concise Oxford English Dictionary: Main edition

I use this dictionary when I’m working with UK or Canadian English. You can purchase the book or access the free dictionary online. There are also foreign-language dictionaries in 28 languages, which I use whenever I have to look up foreign words or phrases.

8. The American Heritage Dictionary of Idioms, Second Edition

You’d be surprised how often idioms are used in everyday content, such as “cat got your tongue.” I reference this dictionary a few times a week when I’m proofreading blog posts or books. It gives you the history of idioms and the correct phrasing and usage, as well.

9. Encyclopedia Brittanica
It’s no longer published in book form, but you can access the extensive knowledge base online for free or subscribe to gain access to all of the features. A wonderful tool for researching practically everything about anything.

10. BuzzFeed Style Guide
BuzzFeed updates their free online style guide weekly, and it’s my preferred source for looking up words that pop up online, as well as in popular culture. As one of the biggest contemporary news sites in the world, BuzzFeed’s style guide will keep you abreast of the newest words floating around in cyberspace.

11. Urban Dictionary
Wanna know what the cool kids are saying? Or you came across a word that can’t be found in Webster’s? Chances are you’ll find it in this free online dictionary that’s trusted by many proofreaders and editors to keep them in the know. I use this site a lot when I’m proofreading YA novels or content written for teen- and college-age kids.

12. IMDB.com
IMDB.com is an online resource for tv, films, actors, actresses, and all things related to the entertainment biz. This is the authoritative site for checking movie and tv show titles and correct spellings of names. Proofreaders just need to access the free info—no need to pay for premium membership.

---

Edit Republic is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. If you choose to purchase through the links provided, you will NOT be charged any extra fees. Please read my disclaimer for more info.