Business Writing Revision Checklist

Focus/Purpose/Audience The document…

… clearly informs and/or persuades.

… takes into account a specific audience (age, ethnicity, culture, professional status).

... clearly addresses purpose/why it is being written.

... articulates goals/intentions.

Organization The document…

… has a clear beginning, middle, and end.

… effectively uses transitions between ideas and paragraphs.

… flows from one idea to another.

… states the main point early.

Content Basics The document…

… uses correct punctuation (commas, semi-colons, etc) .

… avoids sentence fragments.

... has no spelling errors.

… does not contain run on sentences.

... does not use too many complex words.

… provides a mix of complex and simple sentences.

… maintains a consistent tone (not passive).

Content A Closer Look The document…

… includes clearly labeled visual aids that promote the text (pictures, charts, graphs).

… avoids puns, colloquialisms, and/or slang.

… does not over-utilize bold, underline, and italicized text.

… utilizes the proper font.

… uses headings when appropriate.

… is clear, concise, and to the point.

… keeps ideas parallel.

… is properly aligned.

Research The document…

… uses reliable sources.

… presents relevant quotes and supporting research.

… properly uses APA format for in-text citations.

… presents a reference page formatted to APA standards.

Final Check The document…

… sounds good when read out loud.

… uses simple language.

… looks good when printed.

… clearly, concisely, and professionally conveys your information/argument and persuades the reader.