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Writing Mechanics: Proofreading

Here are ten tips to help you become a better proofreader:

  1. Spellchecker. Use your spellchecker - but don't expect the spellchecker to find all your errors!
  2. Look it up! When in doubt about how you are using a word, look it up (dictionary.com).
  3. Out loud. Proofread by reading OUT LOUD.
  4. Take your time. Proofread SLOWLY.
  5. Take a break. Let some time elapse between the writing and the proofreading (even just a five-minute break helps).
  6. Be aware! Be aware of the kinds of mistakes that you often make. Proofread for each of these types of mistakes separately.
  7. Hard copy. Proofread from a hard copy, not on the computer screen.
  8. Focus. Use a piece of paper or a ruler to read line by line, so your eye will not skip to the next line.
  9. Backtrack. When you correct an error, start reading that sentence again from the beginning.
  10. Get help. Find a friend you can partner with, and proofread each other's writing. It is often easier to proofread someone else's work than your own.

You can find some more proofreading tips and strategies at these websites:

 

© Copyrighted by Laura Gibbs. Kaleidoscope images created with Kaleidoscope Painter. Last updated: August 20, 2008 9:46 AM .