About this lesson
You wrote the text, so your brain fills in what you meant. This is why you miss your own errors. Most teachers in this mix start from that idea. They also say checking is a separate step from writing.
The teachers agree on a few habits. Fix the task and ideas first. Then check the language. Look for your own usual errors, one type at a time. Read aloud, even quietly. Do not trust spellcheck alone.
Some advice does not fit an exam. Taking a day off is not possible in a timed test. Some creators teach university style rules. One creator suggests five minutes for the check inside a 40-minute task. That is one creator's plan, not an official rule.
Examples from the clips
- Study.com says to look for your own usual errors first, then do a general read.
- SchoolHabits suggests changing the font so the text looks new.
- Patricia J. Parsons keeps a small notebook of her most common errors.
- examsprepapp plans five minutes at the end of a 40-minute essay for the check.
Questions this lesson answers
How long should I leave for checking?
Creators disagree. One exam channel plans five of 40 minutes. Others talk about hours or days for coursework. Plan some time before you start.
What should I check first?
Check that you answered the whole question. Then check the language. Several teachers say to fix ideas before wording.
Can I trust spellcheck?
Not alone. It misses real words used in the wrong place. Read again after it runs.
Can I fix new errors while I correct old ones?
Yes, that can happen. Read your changes again. In a short check, fix small errors only.
What if I cannot take a break in a timed test?
Study.com says use the other tricks instead. Read aloud under your breath, read backwards, or check one error type.