Revising and Proofreading:
Introduction

Revision is an important step in the writing process, and one that is often overlooked. Too often student writers submit hastily or poorly edited work, or haplessly apply to the art of essay writing the advice of Beat poet Allen Ginsberg, "first thought, best thought." All writers make mistakes and must revise their work accordingly. Yet, the revision process is not simply a matter of proofreading and editing, which some would argue are different steps altogether, but involves systematically working through a draft until you have produced your best work. It is important never to submit a first draft, for it will inevitably contain errors of some kind. Regardless of the writing assignment, this principle must be observed out of courtesy to the reader—and for your own benefit as well.