CPP Proofreading Marks & Symbols 3

Question 1

A proofreader draws a wavy line (called a 'stet') under deleted text and writes 'stet' in the margin. What does this restore?

Accepted Answer

It restores the text to its original form

Answer

'Stet' is Latin for 'let it stand' and instructs the compositor to ignore a previously marked correction.

Question 2

What does a single horizontal line struck through text indicate in standard proofreading notation?

Accepted Answer

Delete this text

Answer

A strikethrough line marks text for deletion; it is often paired with a delete symbol in the margin.

Question 3

Which symbol is used to mark that a hyphen should be inserted between two words?

Accepted Answer

A caret (^) with an equals sign (=)

Answer

A caret with an equals sign (or sometimes just an equals sign) indicates a hyphen should be added at that point.

Question 4

When a proofreader marks 'eq #' in the margin, what are they requesting?

Accepted Answer

Equalize word spacing

Answer

'eq #' instructs the typesetter to equalize the spacing between words so it appears uniform throughout the line.

Question 5

A circle drawn around a period at the end of a sentence during proofreading means:

Accepted Answer

The period is correct — take no action

Answer

Circling existing punctuation (rather than inserting a caret) confirms the mark is correct and should remain as is.

(CPP) Certified Professional Proofreader Practice Test