Writing checklist

Writing checklist

When writing, you should always consult Academic Writing and Grammar for Students by Osmond. Here are some general points to check before you hand in anything:

- Overall organization (introduction-body-conclusion)

- Paragraphing (appropriate length, topic sentences)

     - One paragraph = one idea

     - Avoid one-sentence paragraphs (need developing)

     - Avoid whole-page paragraphs (need to be split up)

     - Indent new paragraphs (except the first one)

     - Start with a topic sentence (what the paragraph is about)

- Sentence structure (no run-on sentences/fragments)

- Appropriate vocabulary (use a dictionary)

- Use the spell-checker on your computer (remember capital letters)

- Be careful about homonyms (e.g. there/their)

- Check prepositions (dictionary/corpus)

- Subject-verb agreement (s/no s on the verb)

- Appropriate use of articles (e.g. avoid overuse of the definite article: the society)

- Check the grammar book for other areas that you are uncertain of (e.g. verb forms, apostrophes).

- Avoid informal words and structures (e.g. don’t, get killed, lots of)

- Use appropriate linking words (e.g. however, moreover)