3e Format and proofread the final version of your writing.

Before you submit your writing, make sure your formatting is correct and follows appropriate guidelines. Use the format recommended by your instructor or for your academic discipline. For an example of formatting in MLA style, see 51b. For an example that shows APA formatting, see 53b.

As a final step, be sure to proofread your writing. Proofreading is a special kind of reading: a slow and methodical search for misspellings, typographical mistakes, and omitted words or word endings. Try one or more of the following tips.

PROOFREADING TIPS

• Remove distractions and allow yourself ten to fifteen minutes of pure concentration—without your cell phone.
• Proofread out loud, articulating each word as it is actually written.
• Proofread your sentences in reverse order.
• Proofread hard-copy pages; mistakes can be difficult to catch on screen.
• Don’t rely too heavily on spell checkers and grammar checkers. Before automatically accepting their changes, consider the accuracy and appropriateness of the suggestions.
• Ask a volunteer (a friend, roommate, or co-worker) to proofread after you. A second reader may catch something you didn’t.