Editing Checklist

Name of Author_______________________ Name of Peer Editor_________________________

Beginning the peer editing process:

 Author reads paper aloud to peer editor, making any corrections she/he discovers by hand
on the paper. Peer editor listens (does not read along), making notes of any general
impressions.
 After listening to the paper, the editor receives a hard copy of the paper and reads it
twice—once for content and once for mechanics.

Content Analysis

You, as the editor, are to write a critique of your partner’s paper. The critique needs to
include the following:

1. Describe what you think is the author’s main point. Underline and example.

2. Describe how the paper hangs to together as a whole.

3. Evaluate the paper, paragraph by paragraph, in terms of flow, transitions, structure and
content.

4. Evaluate the flow sentence by sentence. Specifically recommend any changes in

sentence structure to improve clarity and conciseness.

5. How focused does the author stay on the main point throughout the piece? Give an
example of tight focus, and an example of an unfocused part.

6. Describe the conclusion. Does it bring the reader full circle? If not, suggest how the
author might approach it.

7. Cite at least two specific points the author did well. Give examples.

8. Point out at least two specific points the author needs to work on. Give examples.

Mechanics
Use the following checklist to determine the writing’s strengths and weaknesses in terms of
grammar, word usage, structure, etc. Mark any mechanical problems on the paper as well as
providing specific written comments. Mark various elements (+ or -) and make comments:

Spelling: Sentence Structure: Correct punctuation of

quotes:
Use of apostrophes: Sentence Length:
Consistent Verb tenses: Correct format of
Paragraph Length: attributions (at end of
Consistent quote, not at beginning.)
subject/verb/direct object Compound words:
agreement: Bibliography (format,
Word Usage: appropriateness of sources,
Active voice: etc.)
Capitalization:
Comma Use: Other elements