21 Revising and Editing

Introduction: Do I set out the context of the topic (who, what, where) and explain the significance of the topic? Is my thesis statement or main question clearly indicated? Does my introduction reflect what I present in the paper?

Main Body: Do my paragraphs each address one idea that relates directly back to my thesis? Are my ideas and examples relevant? Do I include effective transitions between them? Are my paragraphs too short [less than 3 sentences] or too long [more a page]? Do I use effective and appropriate sources to prove my arguments? Do I have introductory and concluding sentences for each section?

Conclusion: Do I summarize (not repeat) my thesis and main arguments? Do I give my reader a final thought related to the topic? References: Do I provide references for all sentences or ideas taken from an outside source? Is my referencing style correct and consistent? Do I use quotes accurately and appropriately? Do I include all of my sources in my Bibliography?

Grammar and Spelling: Do I use formal (academic) vocabulary and avoid slang and biased vocabulary? Are my verb tenses (present/past) consistent and correct? Do I use commas, periods, colons, semi-colons, and apostrophes correctly? Is my spelling accurate? Are any of my sentences too short or too lengthy? Are my sentences complete ideas? Have I used ambiguous words such as “it”, “they” or “them”?