Script editors and script readers should not be confused with proof readers or copy editors. It’s a common error writers make, but we give STORY NOTES, whereas proof readers will check and correct your grammar, punctuation and spelling; a copy editor will also check for accuracy and ‘flow’ of the read.
However, I’d be lying if I said I DIDN’T give the odd note on grammar and word usage whilst giving said story notes. I’ve written time and time again on this blog about the pet peeves readers have when giving notes to writers. There are also words that get consistently misspelled by writers. My top 3 are probably (correct spelling in brackets):
- Lightening (lightning)
- draw (drawer)
- cleaver (clever)
Don’t worry … No one EXPECTS perfection; there will always be the odd mistake in people’s spec screenplays and unpublished novels. It’s when there’s LOADS that script readers get THE RAGE! But to be forewarned is to be forearmed, so check out the below as well as this great infographic after the jump – enjoy!
MORE ON B2W:
10 Common Errors In Your Writing You Need To Fix Right Now
5 Killer Grammar & Punctuation Errors That Will Sink Your Reputation … And Ways You Can Fix Them!
Watch Out For These 5 Top Writing Mistakes
3 Killer Typos That Blow Writers Out The Water
Top 5 Screenplay Format Mistakes
From Visually.