If you're writing an essay for a college or university course, your spelling, grammar and accuracy will probably all be heavily factored into your grade. You can't always count on Spell Check to help you out, either. If you need some assistance, take a look at this guide on how to proofread a college essay.
If you're writing an essay for a college or university course, your spelling, grammar and accuracy will probably all be heavily factored into your grade. You can't always count on Spell Check to help you out, either. If you need some assistance, take a look at this guide on how to proofread a college essay.
Introduction
- Proofreading your college essays properly will help ensure quality work. A paper should never be turned in without proofreading. In fact, editing can make the difference of a whole letter grade, or sometimes even more. Top-notch work is free of spelling and grammatical errors, and also contains relevant information presented in a clear, concise and organized manner.
Step 1: Check the Facts
- The first course of action is to go back and double-check your facts. No matter how well-written your essay may be, it probably won't receive a top grade if it contains misinformation. Look at names, dates, quotes, and any other factually significant statements or ideas. If you spot an error, fix it right away.
Step 2: Read it Out Loud
- The next step is to read the essay aloud to yourself. If something doesn't sound right spoken, it probably won't read very smoothly, either.
- Are there any redundancies?
- Is your paper relative to the topic or question assigned?
- Is the essay well-organized, with each thought flowing naturally to the next?
- Does each paragraph concisely outline a complete thought?
- Is each argument or idea well-supported?
- Is your vocabulary interesting? Words such as like, good, and said are dull, and should usually be replaced.
- If any wording sounds awkward to you, go back and iron it out.
Step 3: Check Spelling and Grammar
- First, run a spelling and grammar checking program on your essay. Refrain from letting it automatically change every mistake it finds -- even the best spell checker has known to be wrong, and the program may not be familiar with names or uncommon words that you have used. However, it is a good tool to start with.
- Once you have run the spell checker, scan the paper manually. Read silently, focusing on the characters and sentences in front of you. Look for:
- Spelling.
- Punctuation.
- Fragments.
- Run-on sentences.
- Capitalization.
Conclusion
By taking the time to proofread, you will help yourself receive the best grades possible. It may seem tedious at first, but once you go through the editing process a few times it will become second nature. Remember to factor in the time proofreading will take when arranging your schedule. Make the extra effort, and you will be rewarded with higher grades and the respect of your professors.
