In my opinion, documenting is a lot more easier than proofreading. I can just go on and on writing as per my flow of thoughts. The moment I need to proofread through my document, it becomes a dreary task. As technical writers, proofreading is very important. We need to ensure that grammar usage, punctuation, words used are all correct and consistent. I found this article on eHow website which explains how to proofread documents. I think the best way is to create a checklist while proofreading.
Checklist for Proofreading
1. Spell check your document (Ensure spell check is enabled)
2. Read document thoroughly for grammar errors.
3. Double check accuracy in technical content if any.
4. Double check consistency in terms used,User Interfaces etc.
5. Double check punctuation marks
6. Double check capitalization of words
7. Double check your headings for heading rules.
8. Ensure abbreviations are not used. All words need to be spelled out fully.
9. Double check your Headers, Footers and Contents page.
10. Check for usage of deadwood phrases. Replace with simple words if deadwood phrases are used.
11. Check if document content is within its scope.
I am sure if we follow a checklist, then proofreading becomes a lot more simpler.
Source: http://www.ehow.com/how_4962135_proofread-your-documents.html
6 responses so far ↓
1 Kenneth.m // Feb 6, 2010 at 12:08 am
Very nice post indeed, Nita. Make sure you follow these steps and also share this information with others. Hope to see more posts from you.
2 jnita // Feb 6, 2010 at 10:06 pm
Thanks Kenneth!
3 Sunitha // Feb 8, 2010 at 2:08 pm
A useful checklist indeed. Thanks Nita.
4 Sunitha // Feb 8, 2010 at 2:11 pm
An useful checklist indeed.
5 aditya.s // Feb 9, 2010 at 2:08 pm
Nice Post, Nita. It is a good read.
6 Nita // Feb 9, 2010 at 3:16 pm
Thanks Sunitha and Aditya! I am glad you find this post useful.
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