Become an expert editor!

• Use a built-in spell checker (Word has a spelling and grammar checker that can be accessed by clicking on the 'F7' button on your keyboard) or an online spell checker (e.g., jspell or spellcheck) to identify spelling errors, repeated words, and other common errors. However be aware that spell checkers will not identify all errors. For example, if you use 'principal' instead of 'principle' this 'error' will usually not be highlighted as both words are spelled correctly. Before accepting a suggested correction, make sure the correction is suitable in the context of your written work.

• Use grammar checking software. Once again, this is not completely foolproof. However, grammar checking software can alert writers to many correctable errors. Word has a built in grammar checker (click on the 'F7' button), and there are other grammar checking options available online.

• Use the dictionary to clarify word meanings. There are many online dictionaries available (try thefreedictionary, Google Dictionary, or wordwebonline among many) that provide definitions of words so you can quickly verify if your choice of word is the correct one. You can also use a visual dictionary (e.g., visuwords) to find word meanings and how your chosen word is associated with other words and concepts.

• Lists of frequently confused words are easily obtainable online.

• Print out your work and read from a hardcopy, slowly, one line at a time. Does the writing flow? Are there any gaps in the way you have presented your position or argument?

• Read through your work each time for a single error type to enable a more thorough error sweep. For example, start at sentence level to ensure correct sentence structure. Continue at word level to determine the correct choice and spelling of words. Is the language non-discriminatory? Are transition words and phrases used purposefully? Now proceed to check/correct the punctuation and reference formatting.

• To compensate for familiarity with your written work, try reading it backwards from right to left to identify errors at word level.

• Being too familiar with your written work can mask many errors. If possible, ask a person you trust to read it, and to circle any errors noticed, or where the meaning of a word or sentence is unclear. Discuss and then revise all these areas as needed.

• If possible, leave time between editing your written work and proofing it to help forget what you think was written. This delay will help you to read what you actually wrote, rather than what you think you wrote.

• Check that the presentation guidelines (Criminology & Justice or Counselling/Psychology/Social Work) have been met.