STET: Proofreader's or Editor's Direction

August 25, 2024 3 min read Publishing Editing Proofreading Editing Typesetting Printing Latin Terms

STET is a proofreader's or editor's notation used to indicate that marked corrections should be ignored and the original text should remain unchanged. The term is derived from the Latin word meaning 'let it stand.'

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STET is a proofreader’s or editor’s direction to a printer or typesetter indicating that material previously marked for correction should remain unchanged. Often, the mistaken correction is underscored with a series of dots, and the term “stet” is written in the margin adjacent to the correction. This notation is essential in the editing and proofreading process, ensuring that the text remains true to the author’s original intention or correcting errors in the editing process itself.

Origin and Etymology

The term STET comes from the Latin word “stare,” which means “to stand.” In the context of proofreading, it translates to “let it stand,” directing the typesetter to disregard previously indicated changes.

Practical Application of STET

Marking STET in a Manuscript

When an editor or proofreader decides that a previously marked correction should be reversed:

They will draw a series of dots under the corrected word or phrase.
Write the word “stet” in the margin beside the line containing the correction.
Sometimes, a line is drawn from the notation in the margin back to the dotted text to ensure there is no confusion.

Example of Use

If an editor initially marked the word “color” to be changed to “colour” but later decides to keep the original American spelling, the correction would be reversed as follows:

Original Text: “The color of the sky.”
With Correction: “The colour of the sky.”
Using STET: “The color of the sky.” (with dots under “color” and “stet” in the margin)

Special Considerations

Using STET ensures clarity and avoids misunderstanding between the author, editor, and typesetter. It is particularly useful during the proofreading stages of book publishing, academic journal editing, and other printed media.

Common Scenarios for STET

Author’s Preference: When the author prefers a particular style or wording.
Style Guide Adherence: When the text must adhere to a specific style guide that initially might have been ignored mistakenly.
Error Correction: When an error is made in the initial round of proofreading, and the correction itself needs to be reversed.

Proofreading: The process of reviewing and correcting written material to ensure accuracy and consistency.
Typesetting: The process of setting text onto a page using types.
Correction Marks: Symbols and notations used during proofreading to indicate necessary changes.

FAQs

When should I use STET?

Use STET whenever a previous correction should be ignored, and the original text reinstated.

Is STET still used in digital editing?

While less common in digital editing, variants of STET are still used in track changes and comment features in word processing software to communicate retractions of changes.

Can I use STET for large sections of text?

STET is typically used for short corrections and notations. For larger text sections, a more detailed annotation may be necessary.

Summary

STET is a crucial notation in the editing and proofreading process, directing the typesetter or printer to leave previously corrected text unchanged. This simple yet powerful instruction helps maintain the integrity and quality of the final printed material, ensuring that the author’s intent is preserved and errors in proofreading are acknowledged and corrected.

By effectively understanding and utilizing STET, editors and proofreaders can provide clearer communication and higher-quality work, safeguarding the precision and reliability of the text throughout the publication process.