5 Major Things to Check while Proofreading a Dissertation Paper

Anyone, who has worked on a dissertation paper before, knows how tedious this task is. You need to spend weeks, often months, to finish writing a well-researched dissertation paper. And once when it is done, you need to spend some more time proofreading the paper. While it may be a wise idea to avail dissertation editing and proofreading services from experts, you can also do it yourself. However, you do need to focus on these following things in your paper while proofreading it.

1.      The formatting of the paper:

The formatting of a dissertation needs to be consistent throughout the content. Since dissertation papers are extremely long, it is possible that you may get distracted and unintentionally made some errors in the formatting midway through the content. While proofreading the content ensure that the content complies with the formatting guidelines through the entire length of the paper. You can get dissertation assistance services.  If you see any inconsistency, make the necessary changes in it.

2.      Grammar and spelling:

It goes without saying that you need to check the grammar and spelling accuracy of your content while proofreading. And it is more important for the dissertation because, at this level in the academics, no one tolerates silly grammatical or spelling mistakes. In fact, submitting a dissertation paper with multiple grammatical and spelling errors can cause you a lot of embarrassment. So, it is wise to pay close attention to grammar and spelling with proofreading.

3.      Adherence to the instructions:

While proofreading a dissertation, also pay attention to the content and make sure that it complies with the instructions of your professor. Not just that. You also need to ensure that your dissertation complies with the general academic guidelines and the writing standards of your academic institute. If your professor wanted you to use a certain methodology for the paper, and you have used a different one, it can cause a conflict of opinions. So, identify such things and make the necessary changes.

4.      The accuracy of referencing:

Referencing allows you to acknowledge the source material of a piece of information and its author. It also helps boost the credibility of your dissertation paper. So, you need to be accurate with your referencing work in compliance with the chosen referencing style. While proofreading the paper, make sure that the in-text citations, the details in the footnote, and the reference list is written in the right manner as per the guidelines of the chosen referencing style.

5.      Room for improvement:

Lastly, you need to check the dissertation paper and see if there is any part of the content which could have been written or presented in a better manner. There’s no limit on how good a dissertation paper can be. If you think putting a practical example at one place can make the segment more comprehensive for the reader – make the necessary changes. If you feel that a small piece of editing can improve a certain part of the paper, do it.

 

In conclusion,

Proofreading and editing go hand in hand. You will need to use both the measures to improve the content. However, it is better to proofread and edit your own copy, as you know the content better and understand why you have written something in the first place.