Editing

• Read your final draft aloud or have someone read it to you. Your writing should be smooth and natural.
• Does each sentence have a complete thought?
• Does each paragraph have an overall point?
• Have you used different sentence types and lengths? Are any sentences too long, too choppy or rambling?
• Have you used a variety of sentence beginnings?
• Check for effective use of modifiers.
• Check your compound sentences. Do they contain two equal ideas?
• Do your complex sentences use the most appropriate subordinating conjunctions (although, before, because, since, when, while, etc.) or relative pronouns (that, who, which, etc.) to connect the dependent and independent clauses in the sentences?
• Make sure your writing is concise and to the point. Omit slang, wordiness, and flowery language. Strive for simplicity and clarity in your writing.
• Is your writing fresh and original? Have you avoided overused words and phrases?
• Replace any words or phrases that may be awkward, confusing, or misleading.