How to proofread an essay to get the maximum score? Use this simple algorithm that will help you communicate clearly and spot errors.
Table of Contents
Check formatting issues
The first thing that catches an examiner’s eye is formatting. Make sure that the finished document meets the requirements specified for the assignment. Remember to choose the right font, spacing, and field sizes, and format headings, lists, and links properly.
Detailed formatting requirements should be provided on the assignment sheet or course syllabus. They aren’t there? Ask the teacher directly.
Style of writing
Editing is more than just correcting grammatical and punctuation errors. Another important task of an editor is to make sentences concise, informative, and understandable. If you can’t do it yourself, it’s best to seek help from professional essay editors.
Is everything logically-organized?
Good texts have a logical structure. Having a clear sequence will help the examiner better understand the points you want to convey.
Any essay begins with an introduction and a description of a problem. After the introductory part, the author sets out their own brief theses and begins to support them with arguments. It is desirable that each thesis corresponds to two arguments. One point may not be enough to support the statements, but extensive reasoning will overload the text. The essay ends with a conclusion, which reveals the essence of the problem and the opinion of the author.
Coherence between sentences and paragraphs
You need to ensure the logical and consistent presentation of thought. Try to avoid abrupt transitions from one question to another, repetitions, and unnecessary introductory phrases devoid of specifics.
Content
Assess the rhythm of your writing. Simple and short sentences are the key to the clarity of thought. Alternate them with sentences of various structures and lengths, but avoid overly long sentences and complex phrases.
Grammar mistakes
Use profile dictionaries and special programs to check the spelling of words. However, note that such applications cannot be completely trusted. They often make mistakes and don’t understand the semantic difference between words.
Stylistic mistakes
This category of essay errors includes:
- rhetorical questions
- colloquial expressions and constructions
- common parlance
- abbreviated forms of verbs
As a rule, only one violation is allowed when evaluating this criterion. The remaining errors lead to a loss of points and significantly reduce the overall score even if the essay has no other shortcomings.
Punctuation mistakes
Properly placed punctuation marks help to avoid distortion of meaning. How to minimize the chance of punctuation errors? You should use mostly simple, short sentences and check your spelling with a punctuation dictionary.
Check the word count
The essay is limited to a certain number of words. It is extremely important to use it correctly and fully develop your thought within the limit. You may have to omit additional arguments or examples.
To check the number of characters and words, you can use built-in features of text editors or special services on the Internet. If you have exceeded the allowable amount of text, remove sections repeating prior stated thoughts or those unrelated directly to the selected topic.
