Let us take an overview of the revision process. We see revising as a two-stage process. In the large – scale or global stage, you make substantial changes. You may …


• Shift or narrow the focus of your writing.


• Redirect your writing to better suit your audience.


• Modify the central purpose of your writing.


• Make substantial cuts.


• Expand on some points.


• Reorganize your writing to change the emphasis.


In the small – scale or local stage, you make changes that affect style, tone and unity but usually not content. You may …


• Add examples, anecdotes and more details.


• Cut excess words and phrases to eliminate clutter.


• Add graphics or illustrations as needed.


• Consider whether you can find stronger verbs.


• Improve transitions.


• Rearrange some words or phrases to improve style.


• Review and perhaps rewrite opening and closing paragraphs.


Other Pages in This Section :

A Plan for Revising In Stages

Getting Response from Others

When Should You Stop Revising?