5. Proofread and Revise

Proofreading is important. Careless errors in documents can damage your credibility and be costly. Avoid costly errors by establishing systematic procedures for proofreading and revising documents. Both you and the reader will benefit.

When proofreading, which procedures should you follow? Check all that apply.

1.Ask yourself: Is the message clear?

2.Use spell-check only in an emergency.

3.Begin your proofing by focusing on formatting.

4.Be sure that numbered items are in the correct order.

5. Proof for accidental word substitutions.

What question should you ask yourself when proofreading for organization?

1.Does the message treat the receiver ethically?

2.Should this document be one page or longer?

3.Is the presentation of the main idea based on the receivers likely reaction?

Read the passage. As you read, look for mechanical errors. Answer the corresponding questions.

[1] Our survey indicates that in the past 3 months, employees ability to self-identify personal strengths and weaknesses has improved 12 percent. [2] Initial data analysis indicates that this ability to self-reflect has improved the productivity of work groups and teams. [3] This change will likely have an effect on the companys bottom line.

Which mechanical error appears in sentence 1?

Comma error

Number usage

Apostrophe error

Which is the correct revision of sentence 1?

1. Our survey indicates, that in the past 3 months employees ability to self-identify personal strengths and weaknesses has improved 12 percent.

2. Our survey indicates that in the past three months, employees ability to self-identify personal strengths and weaknesses has improved 12 percent.

3. Our survey indicates that in the past three months, employeess ability to self-identify personal strengths and weaknesses has improved 12 percent.

Evaluate the format and layout of this email message, and then answer the question.

To: Tim Lizarrga

From: Lucretia Morenni

Date: Monday, February 1

Subject: Re: Trade Show Display Specifications

Dear Tim,

Thanks for responding so quickly. I have two more questions for you.

1.	Does the convention center provide table linens?
2.	How much time do vendors need to register that Monday?

Please respond at your earliest convenience. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

Lucy Morenni

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How should Lucy increase the visual impact of this message?

1. Reduce the white space before and after the enumeration.

2. Add more blank space after the enumeration.

3. Bold the enumerated items to highlight the questions.