Did you know that there is a distinction between revision and editing? Not many writers do! To sum it up, revision is the point in the writing process where the writer is primarily focused on making changes related to the content of the paper. Editing , however, is the point at which the writer reviews the paper to improve the grammar and mechanics.
Revision is part of the writing process in which the author focuses on making changes to the document with the intent of improving the organization and overall flow. When revising, an author might choose to (1) add new sections, (2) remove sections, (3) move portions of the paper to different spots, or (4) add transitions to promote flow. The following sections outline various strategies that can be used when revising your document. In addition, you may use the
Revision Checklist to guide you through the process.
Self-Reflection While Revising
Questions to Ask Yourself
Consider the following questions as you revise your paper.
- Does all of my information connect to my main idea or topic? Is there irrelevant information that needs to be removed?
- Are there areas that need to be further expanded or developed?
- Are there transitions when needed?
- Can the overall flow and organization of the paper be improved?
Take a Step Back
Before revising, it is important that the writer step away from their work in order to gain a fresh perspective. Sleeping on it is preferable, but any amount of time you can give yourself apart from the writing is useful for providing a new outlook. Even if you are only able to step away for 15 minutes, you are giving your brain time to reset. When we jump into the revision process too quickly, our brain will automatically fill in any existing gaps or places where revision is needed. To get a better idea of what this is like, look at a document (even an email) that you wrote several months ago. What do you notice? What changes would you make now?
Cutting the Document
Part of revision is knowing what information needs to be cut. Writers oftentimes feel a sense of attachment to their work and it can be challenging to admit that time and energy has been spent creating something that will not be included in the final product. However, eliminating distracting or unnecessary information will make the main concept clearer for the reader and the whole paper will be stronger as a result.
Additionally, just because the information being cut is not useful for the current document does not mean it was a waste of time. More than likely, something was learned in drafting that part of the document. Additionally, consider saving the cut information in a separate document so that it may be used for future projects (if applicable).
For more advice on cutting information during the revision process, check out Purdue OWL's video "Purdue OWL Vidcast: Cutting While Revising."
Tried & True Strategies
The following strategies are common strategies used by writers. Experiement with them to see if they work for you.
The Paramedic Method
The paramedic method is easy to learn and aids
writers in presenting their writing in a clear and concise manner. Using this
method can help with things like the use of the passive voice and redundancies.
For instructions on using the paramedic method, consult Purdue OWL's webpage "Paramedic Method: A Lesson in Writing Concisely."
Reverse Outlining
A reverse outline is simply an outline that you create after writing your first draft. If you wrote an outline before your first draft, do not reference it when reverse outlining. Students often find that as they write, they add sections that were not in their original outline or that the paper may have gone a different direction than what they originally planned.
When creating a reverse outline, start with an entirely fresh document. Then, reference your first draft and create an outline for what you've written. Once you have completed your outline, see if the flow could be improved by moving sections around and ask yourself if each component connects to your thesis. Check with the assignment rubric and description to ensure you have met all the necessary criteria.
Reverse Outlining Resources
Using Your Resources
GATHER ADDITIONAL FEEDBACK
It can be nerve-wracking to have someone else read your paper. However, they can bring an entirely fresh perspective to your writing. Seek out opportunities for peer-editing when necessary, but not all feedback needs to be from someone within your field. An outside perspective may help you identify unclear concepts or undefined terms. In addition, they may naturally ask more clarification questions that will help guide you in developing the concepts and ideas presented in your writing. You can always let your reviewer know that the draft is in process. This may allow you to also give them specific types of feedback you are looking for at that stage.
You can find fantastic and supportive outside readers in the writing coaches who work at the Center for Writing and Academic Success! Writing coaches will support you in developing your writing process. If you are looking to gain additional feedback, working with a writing coach is an excellent platform. Click here to schedule an appointment with a writing coach.
ONLINE RESOURCES FOR REVISION