Proofreading and Editing Your Essay Text Description

The below text explains the proofreading and editing your essay diagram under the proofreading and editing your essay section on the essay writing page of this site.

Proofreading and editing your essay

  • Techniques
    • Read your work backwards - it helps you avoid a content focus.
    • Read your work aloud. This means you consider all words.
    • Take regular breaks; proofreading can be tiring.
    • Give yourself enough time to proofread slowly and carefully.
    • Proofread for different elements in each reading.
    • Show your draft to others and act on feedback.

  • Language issues
    • Have I read my essay and not just relied on my computer's spellchecker?
    • Have I used consistent spelling?
    • Have I used non-discriminatory language?
    • Are all my sentences grammatically correct?
    • Have I used correct punctuation?
    • Have I separated related ideas in long sentences with commas and semi-colons?

  • Considering the reader
    • Is my essay well presented throughout?
    • Have I used direct and clear language?
    • Have I said enough, but not too much?
    • Are my transitional words/expressions varied or always the same?
    • Can the reader easily distinguish my voice?
    • Have I explained all my ideas explicitly?
    • Is my essay visually balanced?

  • Formatting
    • Have I used a sans serif font?
    • Have I used a plain font (not comic sans)?
    • Does the formatting follow set guidelines?
    • Is my spacing correct?
    • Are my margins set properly?
    • Have I used indentation where appropriate?
    • Have I numbered all pages?
    • Have I included a cover sheet (if required)?
    • Have I always followed the required referencing conventions?