Why are proofreader's marks used?

Proofreader's marks are specialized symbols used to communicate specific changes that need to be made to a document. They serve the purpose of marking up a copy when edits are needed, allowing editors and proofreaders to convey their suggestions clearly and efficiently. Each symbol represents a particular action, such as adding, deleting, or rearranging text, enabling the author or typesetter to understand the necessary changes easily.

By using proofreader's marks, the editing process becomes more streamlined as these marks provide an unambiguous method for indicating corrections. This is particularly useful in collaborative environments where multiple individuals may review a document, as it ensures that everyone understands the edits required without needing extensive verbal explanations. The use of these marks ultimately contributes to improving the overall clarity and quality of the written material.