REVISION CHECKLIST (generic)

 

Does the essay tell your readers what they want to know rather than what they probably know already?

Does the essay have a clear and concise main idea? Is this idea made clear to the reader early in the essay (or, if no declarative statement is made, is your truth-seeking question posed early on)?

Is there a clear plan to the essay? Does each paragraph develop logically from the previous one? Is each paragraph clearly related to the main idea of the essay?

Do you unfold each idea in enough detail to make it both clear and interesting? Would readers appreciate more detailed evidence?

Is the main point of each paragraph clear? Is each point adequately and clearly supported with specific details?

Have you anticipated questions your audience might ask?

 

Does the essay maintain a consistent tone?

 

Have you used any specialized or technical language that you readers might not understand? If so, have you worked in brief definitions?

 

EDITING CHECKLIST (generic)

Is each sentence clear and complete?

Could any sentences be improved by combining or restructuring them?

Can any wordy sentences be made more concise?

Are the sentences varied in length and structure?

Does each verb agree with its subject?

Are all verb forms correct and consistent?

Do pronouns refer clearly to the appropriate nouns?

Do all modifying words and phrases refer clearly to the words they are intended to modify?

(if you had any consistent grammar or punctuation problems in essay one, I suggest you consult grammar resources listed on homepage.)