3d Revise and edit sentences.

When you revise sentences, you focus on clarity and effectiveness; when you edit, you check for correctness. Read each sentence slowly to determine if it uses correct grammar and punctuation and if it communicates your meaning clearly and specifically.

How to

Improve your writing with an editing log

An important aspect of becoming a college writer is learning how to identify the grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors that you make frequently. You can use an editing log to keep a list of your common errors, anticipate error patterns, and learn the rules needed to correct the errors.

1. When your instructor or tutor returns a draft, review any errors he or she has identified.
2. Note which errors you commonly make. For example, have you seen “run-on sentence” or “need a transition” in other drafts?
3. Identify the advice in the handbook that will help you correct the errors.
4. Make an entry in your editing log to identify each error. A suggested format appears below.

sample editing log page

The text reads, Original Sentence: Athletes who use any type of biotechnology give themselves an unfair advantage they should be banned from competition.

Edited Sentence: Athletes who use any type of biotechnology give themselves an unfair advantage (insert) comma and (end insert) they should be banned from competition.

Rule or Pattern Applied: To edit a run-on sentence, use a comma and a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or). Handbook section 21a.