Proofread and format the final manuscript - Revising, editing, and reflecting - A process for writing

Rules for writers, Tenth edition - Diana Hacker, Nancy Sommers 2021

Proofread and format the final manuscript
Revising, editing, and reflecting
A process for writing

Proofreading is a special kind of reading: a slow and methodical search for misspellings, typos, and omitted words or word endings. Such errors can be difficult to spot in your own work because you may read what you intended to write, not what is actually on the page.

A carefully proofread essay sends a positive message: It shows that you value your writing and respect your readers. Try one or more of the following strategies.

PROOFREADING TIPS

✵ Remove distractions and allow yourself ten to fifteen minutes of pure concentration — without your cell phone.

✵ Proofread out loud, articulating each word as it is actually written.

✵ Proofread your sentences in reverse order.

✵ Don’t rely too heavily on spell checkers and grammar checkers. Before accepting their changes, consider the accuracy and appropriateness of the suggestions.

✵ Ask a volunteer (a friend, roommate, or co-worker) to proofread after you. A second reader may catch something you didn’t.

Before turning in your essay, make sure that it is formatted correctly. Use the manuscript format recommended by your instructor or for your academic discipline. For MLA style, see the guidelines in 58a and the sample papers in 4e and 58b. For APA style, see the guidelines and sample paper in 63.