What Are the Basics of Proofreading?
A written essay that was not proofread and edited, is not a ready-to-use paper. The thing is that while you are writing an essay, you are focused on shaping thoughts. So, you look at the essay and think like a writer. However, during the proofreading process, you become a reader and can pay attention to details and form an impression of the text as a whole.
Therefore, proofreading is an integral part of essay creation. Any text before proofreading and editing should be considered a rough copy. It is necessary to take into account that proofreading is not a fast and easy process. So, many think, “Can someone edit my essay for me?”
The solution is professional proofreading and editing assistance. You can use the services of experienced specialists in editing different types of academic or business papers. If you choose professional help, it will allow you to save time and energy. What is more, you can be calm about the quality of essay editing. So, you get a chance to improve the text as much as possible.
However, there is one significant disadvantage of professional proofreading services – they are not free. So, if you know that you do not have extra money, the choice of service is not a good idea.
Though, do not rush to get upset. Who says that you cannot provide high-class proofreading on your own? Yes, it will take time and effort, but it also will give you great experience and skills, which are always useful.
How to Provide Self-Proofreading of the Essay?
To assure high-quality proofreading and editing of the essay by yourself, it is necessary to know the basics.
Remember that the main task of proofreading is to look at the essay from the potential reader’s point of view. Forget that you are the author of the text and be as objective as possible. Moreover, it is even better to be critical and meticulous.
There are some tips that will help you to provide impartial and effective proofreading:
- Change the outer shape of the text.
- Become a teacher.
- Read aloud.
- Use online grammar checkers.
Change the Outer Shape of the Text
While you were writing the text, your eyes have already gotten used to it and its form. So, look at it with fresh eyes, print your essay, or just change the font, size, or color of the text.
Become a Teacher
Underline or highlight with a color every mistake or inaccuracy you find. Even if you do not know how to correct something right now, you can take time to think. However, without highlighting, you risk losing the mistake.
Read Aloud
Reading aloud does not allow you to miss anything because you have to pronounce every word and navigate by punctuation marks to understand the sense.
Use Online Grammar Checkers
Even if you have already read the text 10 times, it does not guarantee that you have found all mistakes. So, the use of the grammar checker is a great safety net.
This article has been published in accordance with Socialnomics’ disclosure policy.
