Because readers expect a final copy that is clean and correct in every way, you need to make time for careful final editing—checking your use of grammar, punctuation, mechanics, and spelling. If you have not run your spell checker yet, do so now, and check every word the spell checker flags. Remember, however, that spell checkers are limited and that relying too heavily on them can introduce new errors (31f).

To improve your editing of future assignments, keep a personal checklist of the patterns of editing problems you find. Here again, your computer can help: if you notice that you often misuse a certain word, find every instance of that word, and then check the usage carefully.

An editing checklist

To begin a checklist, jot down all the errors or corrections marked on the last piece of writing you did. Then note the context in which each error appeared, and indicate what you should look for in the future. You can add to this inventory every time you write and edit a draft. Here is an example of one student’s checklist:

This writer has begun to isolate patterns, such as her tendency to accept the spell checker’s suggestions too readily.