Proofreading

Proofreading is essential for all writing. It creates a seamless document by correcting all errors. Proofreading is reviewing and rereading a document looking for errors. When proofreading look for typos [1], misspelled words, punctuation or grammar mistakes, and any other problems with the document. Having a flawless, error free, document gives creditably and is easier for the audience to read and understand.

Why Proofreading is Important

Content is important but the way a document looks affects the way others judge it. Careless errors are distracting to readers. It is important to pay attention to details because it helps make a good impression overall. It is better to work with a definite plan that helps search for specific kinds of errors rather than quickly glancing over the document. When quickly glancing over a document it is easy to overlook many errors.

Checklist

When proofreading, first put the document aside for a few hours, days, or weeks. This allows for a fresh look at the document to see what is really on the page. Find a quite place to work. Read slow, and read every word. Read aloud. By following a checklist, it is easier to find common errors [2]. Proofread for only one kind of error at a time.

Spelling: Look for misspelled words. Using the spell checker will find most errors and typos, but not all. It is important not to only rely on spell checker but to also review and reread your document. Spell checkers almost always do not correct homophones(there, their, they're), words used incorrectly, and contractions(don't, won't, can't).

Punctuation: Punctuation is not checked with the spell checker. When rereading your document look for punctuation errors. This includes periods, commas, colons, semicolons, quotations, and the correct punctuation with citing sources.

Content When proofreading be sure to also pay attention to the content. Check for clarity, organization, variation of sentence structure and word choice. Check that your document to make sure your tense stays the same throughout (past, first-person, present). Also pay close attention to the way the document looks (margins and fonts).

Proofread Again It does not hurt to reread your document many times looking for errors and ways to improve it. It is easy to look over an error or mistake but the more close a document has been proofread there will be less or no problems. Also, consider having a peer or professor look over the document as well.

External Links

The Purdue Online Writing Lab [3]

Webster's Proofreader's Marks [4]

Punctuation Made Simple [5]

Macon State College Library's Guide to Citing Sources [6]