Ask for Feedback

One of the biggest challenges writers face is reading a draft of their own work as a reader rather than as the writer. Because you know what you’re trying to say, you’ll find it easy to understand your draft. And because you’ve read your document so many times, you’re likely to overlook errors in spelling, punctuation, and grammar. After you’ve edited your document, ask a friend, relative, or classmate to proofread it and to make note of any problems.

Checklist for Editing

image Ensure that your document is accurate. Check facts and figures, quotations, and the spelling of names.

image Edit for economy. Strive to express your ideas and argument concisely yet clearly.

image Ensure that your document is consistent. Use concepts, numbers, and source information consistently. Check your document for consistent use of formatting and design.

image Improve your style. Strive for economy, use appropriate words, check your verbs, rewrite overly complex sentences, vary sentence length and structure, and remove sexist language.

image Check for correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Use your word-processing program’s spelling, grammar, punctuation, and style tools; consult a grammar handbook and a dictionary; and ask someone to proofread your draft.