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When we write we are thinking, writing and changing what we write constantly, which means that mistakes can happen. Sometimes we write quickly because we have many ideas coming together and sometimes we write slowly, reading and re-reading sentences and paragraphs again and again to find the best way to communicate our ideas. However, we are very involved with our own writing so we are often concentrating on the content of the writing rather than the spelling or the grammar. This is why we can make mistakes and even native English speakers and good writers do the same.
Proofreading means checking written work for mistakes. It is something which everyone who writes essays, reports or documents does (and should do) before they decide the piece of writing is finished. It is like doing a final check of your luggage before you go on holiday. You would not leave your house before checking you had your passport, tickets, mobile phone and credit cards and it should be the same with your writing. Only give it to the intended reader such as your tutor, lecturer or manager when you have checked the grammar, spelling and punctuation are correct.
However, for writing to be good we need to proofread more than just the grammar and spelling. Remember that you have read your writing many times and it contains your ideas so you automatically understand it. This is not true for the person who will read it so you need to read your work critically for mistakes because even a small mistake could change the meaning for the reader.
Why is this important in English? In English writing the meaning should always be clear. This means that you, the writer, are responsible for explaining your ideas and checking the writing for mistakes. Your reader should not need to think too much about your meaning when they read your writing.
Five common English mistakes to look for when proofreading your work
1. Subject and verb agreement. Example: There is many reasons. Change to: are.
2. Plural nouns. Example: Finance includes a variety of different area of business. Change to: areas.
3. Word order. In the 20th century happened considered technological advances. Change to: considerable technological advances happened.
4. Sentence structure. According to Jones (1998) there are four main effects that are all important in different ways. Change to: According to Jones (1998) there are four main effects. They are all important in different ways.
5. Word form (verb / noun / adjective). The important of following writing conventions should be understood by all students. Change to: importance.
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