3 Easy Steps to Catching Those Pesky Writing Errors
by Jody Calkins
Proofreading your writing work is critical to ensuring your work is at its best. Imagine the types of writing errors that could leave you feeling embarrassed.
We've all heard the blunders, the horror stories of typos getting published (printed even, on billboards!) that could have been easily prevented. They leave bystanders and readers to wonder "what were they thinking?" or "did they have a hangover during the review process?"
The excuses are endless just like the number of errors that can happen in your copy. That's why proofreading your work is so important. The first draft isn't good enough. It can always use some editing.
So, how do we make sure our work goes out without any errors?
Step One
The first step is to give your writing work some breathing room. Set it aside for a day or two depending on the length of your manuscript. If you're writing a blog post, set it aside for a day (for a few hours at the bare minimum).
Step Two
The next step is to read your manuscript out loud. Take your time and be on the lookout for all types of writing errors. This is also a good time to think about whether or not the words you have chosen really serve your manuscript and your message. Fix all of the errors you find.
Step Three
Your final step will help you catch any lingering misspelled words. Turn (or scroll) to the end of your manuscript and read each word, starting with the last and working backward until you get to the first word.
Following these three easy steps will help you eliminate any embarrassing typos in your writing work.
Happy Editing!
What are your writing pet peeves?
About the Author: Jody Calkins helps entrepreneurs and creative writers walk down the "write" road to publication and writing success. As a writer and editor, she specializes in enhancing the clarity, quality, and creativity of a writer's work whether it is fiction to entertain or inspire or nonfiction to teach or motivate.
She is also the author of the upcoming book, How to Write an eBook That Shines: A Practical Guide to Enhancing Your eBook Through Clarity, Quality, and Creativity.
For more information on Jody's editing services, please visit http://emeryroad.com/editing-services.
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