Checklists

Use this list to revise and edit before you turn in the final copy of your writing.

Ideas and Content

ü The topic is narrow and manageable.

ü A clear, central theme drives the writing.

ü Reader’s questions are anticipated and answered.

ü Lots of showing (specifics) rather than telling (generalities).

ü Quality of details matters more than quantity – accuracy counts!

ü Question: Did the writer stay focused and share original and fresh information or perspective about the topic?

Organization

ü Inviting introduction gets you started and then allows the writer to drive from there.

ü Thoughtful transitions link key points and ideas.

ü Sequencing is logical, purposeful, and effective.

ü Pacing – speeding up for wide angle/slowing down for close-ups – is under control.

ü Conclusion wraps it all up and leaves you thinking…

ü Question: Does the organizational structure enhance the ideas and make it easier to understand?

Voice

ü You feel a strong connection to the writer.

ü You want to read this piece (or parts of it) aloud to someone else.

ü There’s a big difference between placid sincerity and powerful engagement.

ü Voice takes on different form as the purpose and audience for writing changes.

ü No matter what, without voice, it’s boring!

ü Question: Would you keep reading this piece if it were longer?

Word Choice

ü Lively, active verbs are a top priority.

ü Correct words are good – precise words are spectacular.

ü Precision demonstrated in choosing words and phrases to match the purpose for writing.

ü Well-crafted natural language is more effective than thesaurus overload.

ü Variety, originality and accuracy are valued over redundancy, jargon, and slang.

ü Question: Do the words and phrases create vivid pictures in your mind?

Sentence Fluency

ü Listen for the rhythm and cadence – even if the punctuation is not yet present or correct.

ü Sentences begin in different ways and often end in a noun or verb.

ü Creative and varied use of sentence length and structure.

ü Fragments are deliberate and add style and flair as suited to the topic and audience.

ü Question: Can you FEEL the words and phrases flow together as you read it aloud?

Conventions

ü Consider all these key components: spelling, punctuation, capitalization, grammar and usage, and paragraphing.

ü Spelling is a hot spot – beware!

ü The text should look clean, edited, and polished.

ü Question: How much editing would have to be done to be ready to share with an outside audience?