Tips for Editing Another Person’s Work?

Answer 1

As the end of the semester nears, many students have final papers to write. In addition to seeking help from professors, TAs and campus writing centers, many students work with one another to help each other with the writing and editing process. This can be a very helpful exercise. Here are some tips to keep in mind the next time another person asks you to edit his or her work. These are not only relevant to the academic context, but to a professional context as well. Take time when reviewing another person’s work. Remember that the author has put in considerable time and effort in writing his or her paper. Respect this by reviewing the writing slowly and carefully. Read it more than once if you need to. As the author about his or her editing preferences. This could include the way in which you make the edits (Track Changes vs. writing in edits by hand, for example) as well as elements that the author would like you to pay special attention to (i.e. spelling, organization, citation style, etc.). Leave constructive comments. If you choose to comment on someone else’s work, make sure to phrase your comments in a constructive manner (example: “This section is written clearly, but it would be stronger if you add a quote by Plato.”). By complimenting the author and suggesting a way to improve the paper, you are both affirming what he or she has already done well and giving him or her concrete ways to build on the work. Return the edited document in a timely manner. Nobody likes to wait around for weeks to get edits back. Respect the author’s time and return the edits to him or her in a timely manner. Ask the author if he or she needs the edited document by a certain date (for example, to turn it in to a professor) and return the paper to him or her before that time. Ask him or her to return the favor. Set up a paper exchange system so that you can help each other with future papers.