Staying ahead of everyone else in the class is a dream for most students. However, writing high-quality matter always does not make the cut. So, what is the distinction which allows some students to get an A+ while others don’t get it regardless of being assigned the same topic? Well, we have to say the reason is due to proofreading.
Proofreading is a vital step overlooked by many, which makes all the difference. Proofreading is reviewing your final paper, rectifying minor errors, and adding the last finishing touches to the report to make it flawless. Students who do it know the extra effects it adds to the paper.
So, if you are wondering how to do proofreading so that you can be at the top of your class, too, then here are the only tips you need to know.
- Create a checklist
Having a list is the key to getting all things done on time. Before jumping into proofreading, write down all the things you want to have in your paper. It happens at times, when we forget the essential details, we want in our paper only to remember them later. Don’t make this mistake and write them ona notepad. Then, while reviewing your paper, you can go through the list to make sure you are ticking all the boxes you want.
Many experts in essay help and even talented writers follow this step. This is to ensure that you keep everything under check. Some of the essential things you do not want to keep in your checklist are spelling, grammar, reading flow, punctuation, and even titles.
- Distraction-free place
No significant work can be done in a disturbing environment. Hence, try to find a place where your work can be productive. How can your review your paper thoroughly if you have disturbing elements around you? Now every person has their zone of work. For some it can be a quiet library for others it can be a place like a cafe too? Knowing yourself try to pick a place where you think you can do the proofreading precisely. The key to being a good proofreader is to be attentive, which comes from a good workplace.
Don’t compromise when it comes to proofreading. Most people don’t take it seriously, due to which you can find many errors in their paper. Instead, try to find a place that will help you review your paper to add the extra details it needs to enhance the writing quality.
- Read it loudly
The following tip is to read out loud. There will be instances when you find that particular sentence that does not make sense only when you read it loudly. Reading loudly will help you detect numerous mistakes which you can easily miss. While reading, you will be able to check the flow of the sentences and make up for the missing punctuation. Reading also helps you understand if the sentences make any sense to what you want to portray. This will enhance the readability and make matters more solid.
You might think that not reading loudly will have the same effect? But we want you to try it out by reading out loud so that you can feel the difference for yourself.
- Review in small sections
The biggest issue because of which most students skip proofreading is because they do not like going through lengthy papers. And hate it or love it, the longer the report, the more critical it is for you to revise them. A simple trick to revise lengthy papers is to do it in small chunks. Now you do not have to revise the dissertation and case studies in one go. Instead, make a timetable and cover them up in small sections to avoid feeling exhausted and get the work done.
- Three is the lucky number
Now, if you are a beginner and wondering how many times you should proofread your papers? To give you a number, we would go through your article three times. Now, this might be too many times for lengthy documents. But being a beginner, it depends a lot on your skills. A thorough proofreader might not need to go through their paper so many times, but a beginner will need to. All in all three is a steady number that will ensure that you do not have any flaws in your paper.
- Don’t rely on online tools entirely
A lot of people rely on online tools to get their proofreading done. Now, this is a smart move, and why not use such tools when they are available, right? But a pro tip while using online tools is not to trust them completely. Even if you are using online tools, ensure that you go through the paper by yourself once or twice before final submission. Online tools can be used to double-check your writing, but they should not be taken as an absolute proofreading method before submission.
- Get a friend
And finally, our last tip is to have a friend. A friend is all you need to make your life easier, and proofreading is no different. Whenever in doubt, ask your friends to go through your papers so that they can guide you on your mistakes.
Also, having someone else suggestions will give you some ideas on making changes or necessary things that will enhance your writing. Now it does not always have to be your friend. It can be your sibling or even your friends. You can also ask your professor to go through your paper before the final submission date and get their suggestions.
Proofreading is the pro tip that should never be missed. There are numerous times when students lose marks due to silly mistakes. Don’t be one of them, and make your paper flawless. Proofreading your document gives it the upper hand it needs.
If you are spending hours on writing and researching about your article, then go the extra mile and do the revisions for it as well.
