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From the OWL resource Proofreading Your Writing

This resource was written by Purdue OWL.
Last full revision by Jaclyn M. Wells, Morgan Sousa, and Mia Martini.
Last edited by Allen Brizee on May 5th 2009 at 9:44AM

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Suggestions for Proofreading Your Paper

One of the most difficult parts of the writing process is proofreading. It is easy for us to see what we want to see, not necessarily what our readers will see. These suggestions should help you take a step back and view your writing more objectively.

Suggestions for Editing (Proofreading) your Paper

Read your Paper Aloud

Any time your text is awkward or confusing, or any time you have to pause or reread your text, revise this section. If it is at all awkward for you, you can bet it will be awkward for your reader.

Examine your Paragraphs

Examine the overall construction of your paragraphs, looking specifically at length, supporting sentence(s), and topic sentence. Individual paragraphs that are significantly lacking length or sufficient supporting information as well as those missing a topic sentence may be a sign of a premature or under-developed thought.

Track Frequent Errors

Keep track of errors that you make frequently. Ask your teacher or visit the Writing Lab for assistance in eliminating these errors.

All Sections in Proofreading Your Writing: Suggestions for Proofreading Your Paper:

  1. Where do I begin?
  2. Finding Common Errors
  3. Suggestions for Proofreading Your Paper
  4. Revising for Cohesion
  5. Steps for Revising Your Paper
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