Proofreading: Difference between revisions

Proofreading [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proofreading] is reviewing and rereading a document looking for errors and is essential for all writing. It creates a seamless document by correcting all errors. When proofreading look for typos [http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/typo], misspelled words, punctuation and grammar [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Traditional_grammar] mistakes, and any other problems within the document. Having a flawless, error free, document gives creditably and is easier for the audience [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audience] to read and understand.

While content is important, readers base their judgment on the document's appearance. 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.

Look for misspelled words. Using a spell checker [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/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 do not always correct homophones [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homophones](i.e. their, they're, there), words used incorrectly,as well as and/or contractions [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contraction_(grammar)](i.e. don't, won't, can't).  

It does not hurt to reread your document many times looking for errors and for ways to improve it. It is easy to overlook an error or mistake. However, close reexamination ensures that fewer errors will make it to the final text, lending to more credibility to the author. Consider having a peer or professor look over the document as well.