Tips for proofreading and catching major errors:

  • Review the major error handout to make sure you understand the most significant problems you're looking for.  Also, take a look at the editing section on pp59-64 in Bedford. 

  • Read the essay out loud with a pencil in your hand and mark awkward sections.

  • Read the draft backwards at both the word level (to catch spelling errors) and the sentence level (to catch grammatical errors).

  • Read the draft through several times with at least an hour in between readings.

  • If you’re using a word processor, make sure to proofread with a hard copy—you won’t be hypnotized by the flashing pixels this way.

  • If you’re using a word processor, use the spell-checker, but remember that it won’t catch misspellings like from/form, two/too/to, then/than, of/have.

  • Lightly mark sentences that you’re unsure of, and ask me about them in class next time.

Students who don't pass this essay generally haven’t spent enough time proofreading

Final reminders

  • Make sure to include a comprehensive summary of the article you are writing about.  Unless you want to use an introduction to the issue (which isn't really necessary) begin your essay by mentioning the author and title (in quotation marks, not underlined) and the overall position of the writer. Then take use through the whole argument the writer makes (probably around ¾ of a page).  You'll probably end your summary section with a transition into your thesis/stance on the issue (which will oppose your target essay's stance). 

  • When you set up the refutation points, quote the article/author and then give a neutral overview of what the quote means.  Then transition into your refutation of that point. Make sure to tieback your refutation to the main position of target essay that you are arguing against.

  • Don't forget to transition into a counterargument section after the refutation section.  Develop 2-3 reasons (one paragraph each) with evidence and explanation supporting your position on the issue. 

  • Make sure to integrate quotes properly with signal phrases and to include page numbers in parentheses.  REVIEW CHAPTER 56 IN BEDFORD.

  • Don't forget to include a WORKS CITED PAGE.

Also, don't forget that the the writing center is available to assist you.

See Portfolio/Format Guidelines on the main assignments page for guidance on what to include in your portfolio.