Proofreader Test

A proofreader test can be used during the recruitment process to assess candidates on the essential skills and aptitudes required for a proofreader role, to help employers identify the most capable candidates.

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What is a proofreader test?

A proofreader test is given as part of an application process for a role as a proofreader, or for a role that calls for proofreading skills.

Often given to candidates early in the process, the proofreader test asks relevant questions to assess an applicant based on their competencies and skills, to ensure that they have what it takes to be successful upon hiring.

Proofreaders need a number of skills, and while some qualifications might be necessary for the role, it can be hard to distinguish the best candidates when everyone is similarly qualified. Using a proofreader test provides objective, unbiased results that are useful data points, helping recruitment teams make better hiring decisions.

Jump to a section on this page:

  1. What is a proofreader test?
  2. Why should you use a proofreader test for recruiting?
  3. How our test assesses proofreader skills
  4. Proofreader Test FAQs

About the Proofreader Test

The proofreader test is designed to assess the skills and knowledge of an applicant, using questions that are relevant to the role.

Delivered via an email link to any number of candidates, this test can be scaled up to potentially thousands of applicants, and the results can be used to distinguish the outstanding individuals, narrowing the talent pool and ensuring that only the best get taken further into the process.

Why should you use a proofreader test for recruiting?

The proofreader test gives straightforward, easy-to-read results that recruiters can rely on. It can significantly reduce the cost per hire, remove unnecessary training needs, and predict the future success of an applicant once hired.

Finding the right candidate is difficult, and when the skill set is as specific as it is for proofreading, this is important. Experienced proofreaders often have a specific focus, whether it is educational, working with fiction writers, or helping to produce articles online.

Whether you are looking for an experienced proofreader, or someone just starting their career, you want to make sure that they will cope with the job, perform well in the future, and be a productive member of the team.

The proofreader test can be used early in the process to ensure that candidates who lack the basic skills and knowledge aren't taken forward to the interview stage.

The proofreader test may also be useful for the following roles:

View a sample report

Results for the Proofreader Test along with other assessments the candidate takes will be compiled to produce a candidate report.

The report is automatically generated and available both online and as a downloadable pdf so they can be shared with other team members and employees alike.

Download sample report
App screenshot

How our test assesses proofreader skills

Candidates will need to answer a range of questions that measure industry-specific soft skills (e.g. time management), aptitude (e.g. error checking) and relevant personality dimensions (e.g. detail orientation). The results present a holistic view of how well suited each candidate is for the job at hand, using a data-driven approach.

The format varies by type of question, including multiple-choice for aptitude and technical skills, situational judgement for soft skills and agreement on a Likert scale for the personality dimensions. This approach ensures candidates are being assessed in an accurate and fair manner, and that results reflect the true underlying qualities of each candidate.

The characteristics, abilities and knowledge necessary to be a proofreader were identified using the US Department of Labor's comprehensive O*NET database. O*NET is the leading source of occupational information that is constantly updated by collecting data from employees in specific job roles.

During the development process, test questions were rigorously analysed to maximise reliability and validity in line with industry best practices. They were created by our team of I/O psychologists and psychometricians – who collaborated with subject-matter-experts – and field-tested with a representative sample of job applicants who have varying experience, just like you might find in a talent pool.

Each test is reviewed by a panel of individuals representing diverse backgrounds to check for any sensitivity, fairness, face validity and accessibility issues. This ensures each candidate has a fair chance of demonstrating their true level of expertise.

Our proofreader test is monitored to ensure it is up-to-date and optimised for performance.

Our test platform

Our platform offers an extensive library of hundreds of tests, giving you the flexibility to select and combine them in any way that suits your hiring needs. From understanding specific role requirements to assessing general cognitive abilities, our diverse library ensures you can tailor your assessment process precisely.

Multi-format.
Our test questions come in various formats, including multiple-choice, true and false, ranking and situational judgment, all ensuring comprehensive candidate assessment.
Role-specific simulations.
Experience real-world scenarios with our role-specific simulations, providing accurate insights into candidates' performance, readiness and fit for the position.
Adaptive scoring.
Our adaptive scoring system evaluates responses in real-time, by adjusting to the candidate's ability level, enhancing accuracy and reliability.

Curated by our
team of experts

Expert 1 Expert 2 Expert 3

Scientifically validated by psychometric specialists

  • Our team of assessment experts is made up of I/O psychologists, psychometricians, and subject matter experts who work closely together to ensure each test is accurate and reliable.
  • Our subject matter experts are rigorously vetted and typically have several years of experience working in their industries and hold advanced credentials.

Frequently asked questions

What skills should a proofreader have?

There are several skills that you want a proofreader to have, including:

  • Attention to detail
  • Great knowledge of the English language, including grammar
  • Excellent communication, both written and verbal
  • Flexible, persistent, and open to changes
When in the recruitment process is it best to use a proofreader test?

Most companies use a proofreader test early in the application process. It can be used whenever you prefer, however. After the initial applications have been received, they can be checked and sifted to match against basic criteria, with those that meet the standards given the tests.

What is the cost for Neuroworx's proofreader test?

Neuroworx operates on a monthly or annual subscription basis. We have several plans to suit your hiring needs, which you can check out here. Alternatively, you can get in touch with us to discuss a custom plan.

Can I get a free trial?

Yes, simply sign up (no credit card is required) and we'll give you unlimited access for 7 seven days. Create as many jobs and test as many candidates as you want; you won't be charged a penny.

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