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How To Find the Not-So-Obvious Writing Errors

Date : 2008-08-26

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How To Find the Not-So-Obvious Errors

American journalist, author and grammarian William Safire once said, “If you re-read your work, you can find on re-reading a great deal of repetition can be avoided by re-reading and editing.” Mr. Safire’s comment makes the need for editing obvious. The problem for many writers, however, is finding the errors that aren’t so obvious.

Here are some common editing problems and solutions to make the process easier.

Problem: You proofread your work but still overlook errors.
Solution: It is difficult to proofread your own work and catch all of your spelling and grammatical errors. It’s even harder to catch lapses in the logical flow of ideas because you understand what you are trying to say. Before you edit your work, put it aside if only for a few minutes. It is easier to catch mistakes with a fresh eye. For important documents, ask a colleague to read your work.

Problem: You don’t remember the rules of grammar that you learned years ago so you don’t always know when you are writing something that is grammatically incorrect.
Solution: Many writers can’t tell you the rules of grammar but know if something is grammatically incorrect. How? They are avid readers. You can increase your grammar skills by reading well-written newspapers such as The New York Times or The Washington Post. Get in the habit of reading books. When in doubt about punctuation or word usage, consult a style book or dictionary.

Problem: You use the spell check function when writing but spelling errors still creep into your work.
Solution: Spell check is a helpful tool but you still need to proofread your writing. The spell check function can overlook more subtle mistakes. For example, if you misuse a word but spell it correctly, the spell check feature may not flag the word for correction.

Problem: You have difficulty spelling words correctly.
Solution: Improving your spelling skills does not have to be a tedious process. Playing Scrabble or doing crossword puzzles can help. Reading is another solution. Get in the habit of using a dictionary.

Problem: Even after proofreading an email, you inevitably find a spelling or grammatical error after you push the “send” button.
Solution: If an email is an important piece of correspondence, proofread it on paper rather than on your screen. If that one extra step saves a string of emails explaining what you wanted to say in the first place, it is time well spent.

© 2008 Joan B. Marcus Communications LLC

Joan B. Marcus Communications LLC
610.437.3255 info@joanbmarcuscommunications.com

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