STET
Definition:
In the context of proofreading and editing, STET is an instruction to a printer or typesetter to ignore a previously made correction and to retain the original text. It comes from the Latin word meaning “let it stand.”
How to Use:
When revising a manuscript or any document, if an editor changes their mind about a correction, they may write “STET” in the margin next to the text that was initially marked for change. Additionally, the text to remain unchanged is often underscored with a series of dots to clarify the instruction.
Examples:
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Scenario in Book Editing:
- Original sentence: “The cat jumped over the moon.”
- Editor initially changes it to: “The cat leaped over the moon.”
- Editor then decides to revert back to the original: The instruction “STET” is written in the margin, and the original sentence “The cat jumped over the moon” is underscored with dots.
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Scenario in Scientific Publishing:
- A proofreader marks “temparature” to be corrected to “temperature.”
- Later, the proofreader realizes it was a typographical error in the correction notes and writes “STET” next to the marked word and restores “temparature.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: Why is ‘STET’ used in proofreading?
A1: ‘STET’ is used to indicate that a previously suggested correction should be ignored and the original text should remain unchanged. This helps in avoiding unnecessary changes and maintaining the intended meaning or style of the original text.
Q2: How is ‘STET’ visually marked in a document?
A2: ‘STET’ is typically written in the margin of the document near the text in question. The original text that should remain as it is, is often underscored with a series of dots for clarity.
Q3: Is ‘STET’ used in digital editing tools?
A3: In digital editing tools, ‘STET’ is not usually marked with physical underscores. Instead, comments or tracked changes features allow editors to leave notes indicating that certain alterations should be disregarded.
Q4: What should a typesetter do when they see ‘STET’?
A4: When a typesetter sees ‘STET,’ they should leave the text exactly as it was before any correction markings were made. They should ignore any suggested changes to that specific part of the text.
Q5: Are there similar terms to ‘STET’ that proofreaders use?
A5: Yes, proofreaders and editors use various marks and symbols such as ‘dele’ (delete), ’transpose,’ ‘insert,’ and ‘sp’ (spelling), among others, to indicate different types of corrections or instructions.
Related Terms:
- Delete (Dele): A proofreading mark that instructs the deletion of text. It is often represented by the symbol “∂” or “dele.”
- Insert: Typically marked with a caret (^) indicating where additional text should be inserted.
- Transpose (TR): An instruction to swap two sections of text, marked by the letters “TR.”
- Query (Qy): Indicates a query or a question about the text near the mark.
- Correction (Corr): A general marking that indicates a mistake that needs to be corrected.
Online Resources:
- Chicago Manual of Style - Proofreading Marks
- Merriam-Webster Dictionary - STET Definition
- Oxford English Dictionary - STET
Suggested Books for Further Studies:
- The Chicago Manual of Style by University of Chicago Press Staff
- Marks of Excellence: The History and Taxonomy of Symbols by Per Mollerup
- Proofreading, Revising & Editing Skills Success in 20 Minutes a Day by Brady Smith
- Copyediting and Proofreading For Dummies by Suzanne Gilad
- The Elements of Editing: A Modern Guide for Editors and Journalists by Arthur Plotnik
Fundamentals of STET: Publishing and Editing Basics Quiz
Thank you for exploring the nuances of proofreading with us. We hope our detailed explanation and quiz enhanced your understanding of ‘STET’ and its vital role in publishing and editing.
