Use the following marking and searching strategies to edit for accuracy, economy, consistency, and style:
Mark your document. As you read, use a highlighter pen or the highlighting tool in your word-processing program to mark errors or information that should be double-checked. Consider using different colors to highlight specific types of problems, such as sexist language or inconsistent use of formal titles.
Use the Find and Replace tools. Use your word-processing program to edit concepts, names, numbers, and titles for consistency and accuracy. Once you’ve identified a word or phrase that you’d like to check or change, you can search for it throughout your document. If you are referring to sources using a parenthetical citation style, such as MLA or APA, use the Find tool to search for an opening parenthesis. If you discover that you’ve consistently misspelled a word or name, use the Replace tool to correct it throughout your document.
Use the Split Window tool. Some word-processing programs allow you to split your window so that you can view different parts of your document at the same time. Use this tool to ensure that you are referring to a concept in the same way throughout your document or to check for consistent use of fonts, headings, subheadings, illustrations, and tables.