00Editing+Process


 * How to Improve your writing **


 * for Creative Writing (creating a short story, play or poem) click here **

<Harper and Westerhof)

>> At each stage, print out a double-spaced copy and revise with coloured pen. This can also be done using the "track changes" feature on some word processing programs such as MS Word.
 * focus on ** R evising (**rearranging) **and A dding content for most powerful, in depth, //logical// discussion of topic**
 * edit by ** D eleting** **repetitive or redundant ideas or phrasing** and work toward an **efficient (economical) and concise use of language** **(most number of ideas in least number of words)**
 * the above process should take **several drafts**
 * look at how you can colour your piece and add flare with stylistic use of language
 * finally, **clean up any mechanical errors** (grammar, spelling).

**Editing strategies** at each stage of the writing process**:**
 * read your work **aloud**
 * have a **dictionary and grammar reference guide** handy (see reference shelf to buy such as various style guides, there are **mobile apps** such as Merriam Webster or Dictionary.com).
 * **double space** your work so that you and others can edit. Exchange with someone who has a similar or (ideally) higher proficiency in the language. A fresh pair of eyes can help spot
 * Check Spelling by **following your paper word by word from the last to first** word in the piece (often we miss common errors because our brain will "autocorrect" as in these examples)

// **Typical Submission Guidelines** // (when asked for hardcopy of assignments)


 * **Turnitin Originality Report** (click on the coloured bar next to the assignment in your portfolio)
 * **Rubric** (with name, date, relevant info at top of sheet filled out in navy/black **pen**)
 * **Final copy** of the work (in MLA format)
 * **Works Cited** (review rules of MLA format in the Green Guide - see MLA link in left sidebar)
 * **Drafts** (edited, or evidence of self and peer reviews)
 * **Media** (optional: if giving a presentation or collage, print small versions of the slides you are presenting to get feedback: e.g., 6 slides per page for a powerpoint/keynote file).
 * TDSB Green Research Guide (under Secondary, click Reseach Success @your Library, pw: in agenda)