Tip 33: Conceptual Proofing

Proofreading is more than just detecting bad grammar and misspelled words. You must also do an independent check of your promotion pieces for "global" errors.

Conceptual proofing is stepping back to see the big picture so no "global" errors are made. Some examples:

1. Independently verify dates and schedule:
   
• Is Monday, May 22, 2001 correct? You must actually look at 2001 calendar. Either Monday is wrong or May 22 is – go to the primary source to find out which.
  
• Are the session days and times correct? Go to the primary source to verify.
  
2. Phone number and URL – independently check all phone numbers such as for registration and housing.Actually call the number to verify its accuracy. Ditto with web sites – actually bring up the site.

Be careful. Making a global mistake – such as a wrong phone number or URL for your housing firm – can be very costly.