Revising, Editing, and Proofreading

Revising means the process of "seeing again." In revision, you try to see your own work with fresh eyes and ears, or you have someone you trust see you work. You are thinking about how your message is being conveyed. Are you saying what you want to say in the most effective way? Is your audience going to understand what you're communicating? How might you change things around, use different vocabulary, or use a different approach to make your writing stronger?

If the paper were a building, revising would look at how the blueprints match the building and determine how structurally sound the building is.

A good way to revise is to have another person read your work. Alternatively or additionally, you can read your own work ALOUD.

Editing means the process of "fixing things." In editing, you ensure that you've caught all grammar and mechanics issues and fixed them. At this point, using an online checker like Grammarly or SpellCheck is helpful, but you can also do a lot just by using the Tools --> Spelling and grammar check at the top of the page on Google Docs.

If the paper were a building, editing would look at whether the paint and the siding have curb appeal.

A good way to edit is to read your own work ALOUD. Additionally, use Google Docs --> Tools --> Spelling and Grammar, Grammarly or SpellCheck.

Proofreading means the process of "getting ready for the world to see the writing." In proofreading, you make sure that your fonts are consistent, that you've used the correct formatting (be that MLA, APA, or Chicago), that you haven't accidentally hit an incorrect key anywhere, and that your writing is ready for its audience.

If the paper were a building, proofreading clean the windows and mop the floors.

A good way to proofread is to check your work visually against a sample paper. Typically, your teacher will have an example. Use this as your guide.