Proofreading is the process of carefully reviewing a written document, such as a text, article, essay, or manuscript, to identify and correct errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, syntax, and formatting. The goal of proofreading is to ensure that the text is free of mistakes and flows smoothly, making it more polished and professional. Proofreaders also check for consistency in style and formatting, making sure that the document adheres to established guidelines or standards. It is a crucial step in the editing and quality control process for written content to ensure accuracy and clarity before it is finalized and published.