What are "Proofreader's Marks"?

Wise authors have professionals who are well versed with grammar review their work carefully before sending their work off for publication. Originally developed as a way for authors to clearly communicate corrections, the use of symbols for corrections developed. These symbols are called "proofreader's marks".

However, proofreading marks are not just for editors. Students, teachers and peer reviewers find these marks easier than writing out every change on the paper. Hundreds of combinations of the proofreading marks exist, though there are a few tried and true marks that almost everyone understands. The symbols below are basic marks that you will see used by your Team USC teachers on your writings, quizzes and tests.