If you are an ocean cruise lover, a galley is the ship’s kitchen. If you have a peg leg, a parrot on your shoulder, and say “Arg” a lot, well then, galley pretty much means the same thing. But to authors, a galley is something totally different.

A galley refers to an early version or proof of a manuscript or document that is used for review and editing purposes before it is finalized for publication. The term actually originated in the printing industry; a galley was a long sheet of paper that contained the text of a book or article in a single, continuous page (similar to the way documents feel in MS Word and other apps). Many of us refer to galleys as simply nearly completed drafts of our work.

Galley proofs are produced after the initial revision stages of a written work. They don’t have to be error free and their purpose is to correct mistakes and make improvements before the work goes into its final published form. Today, galleys are distributed electronically as digital files. This method, of course, allows for easier editing and collaboration among the multiple individuals involved in the publication process.

So, who uses galleries and how are they used exactly? Authors, proofreaders, editors, and publishers use galleys during the editing and revision process. Here's how different parties typically use galleys:

Proofreaders: Proofreaders identify and correct errors that were missed during earlier stages. They focus on spelling, typographical, formatting, and other issues affecting the accuracy and professionalism of the final publication.

Editors: Editors receive galleys to assess the manuscript's overall quality and coherence. They focus on the usual suspects; grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, consistency, and overall readability. They suggest revisions, improvements, and clarifications to enhance the manuscript's clarity and impact.

Authors: Authors receive galleys to review their own work and make necessary changes or corrections. They examine the content, flow, clarity, and accuracy of their writing. Authors may also use galleys to ensure their work aligns with the desired style or guidelines provided by the publisher.

Publishers: Publishers review galleys to ensure the manuscript meets their publishing standards and aligns with their vision for the final product. They collaborate with editors and proofreaders to make necessary changes and provide feedback to the author. Publishers consider marketability, target audience, and other factors before giving the green light for publication.

The collaborative process involving galleys allows for multiple rounds of revisions and feedback until the written work is polished and ready for publication. Once revisions and corrections are made, a final version of the manuscript is prepared for printing or digital publication.

​​What is a Galley?

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