Review the Proofs

Reviewing the proofs is an important last step to assure you get what you want. Proofs are provided in two formats: as a digital file and a printed proof.

A digital proof is will be in the form of a PDF file that will be used as the print source. It will have a multiple pages although the cover is commonly in a separate file. This type of proof is easiest to produce and therefore usually included in the price of printing your book. It’s primary purpose is to provide you with an accurate representation of the book, such as the page size, type face and can be used to check for any outstanding errors.

If we are designing your book, you have likely received multiple progress proofs and have seen the book as it develops. If you have submitted your document in other than PDF format, such as a Word document, it may be the first time you have seen it in this new format. 

Considerations 

• It is hard to assess the colour accuracy of a digital proof because of the type of device or monitor on which you are looking at the file. If you monitor is not colour calibrated, it may be way off the actual printed result.
• When viewing the digital file, keep in mind that computer screens are backlit and paper is not so colour may be more subdued in print. 

• View the document at 100% or zero enlargement if you are trying to assess the readability of type.

A printed proof is on paper and if required will be sent to you by courier unless you can stop in and pick it up. It is commonly but not always printed on the same paper as the final book. 

The proof will rarely be in the form of a book, instead it is usually a loosely bound collection of some if not all of the book pages and a printed copy of the cover. Preparing a single book is both time and cost prohibitive unless of course money is no object. 

Considerations 

• Printed proofs are time consuming to produce and will usually have a fee of $75 – $100. The cost applies for each copy produced so don’t use it as a way to spell and grammar check your document. 
• Printed proofs are the best way to get a good idea of what the final book will look like – less important if you are only dealing with black type and grayscale illustrations.

The proof in either format is provided to you for approval or rejection. If it is OK, usually a signature and date are required on the printed proof and it is returned to us prior to printing. If you are replying to a digital proof, it is best to use a reply to our email and include any questions that you have.