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Learn to Write

A guide to help you understand the process of writing and types of writing for assignments at NorQuest College.

 "I need to correct my grammar. Can you help me?"

We hear this a lot!

Checking for grammatical errors—often called proofreading—is an important step in polishing your writing before you submit it, but it's not the only thing you should do once you've finished writing.

If you focus only on correct grammar and spelling, you are missing many other opportunities to improve your writing (and your grade!).

We recommend that you go through your paper at least twice to check for other ways to revise your paper before moving on to the proofreading stage.

Of course, we understand that you want to make sure that your writing is grammatically correct, too, so this section discusses some of the tools you can use to help you proofread your writing.

A piece of white paper with red editing marks on it

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Read & Write Gold 11

Many people find that when they read their own writing, they miss their errors. Read and Write is a program that can help you spot your own errors and develop your writing skills at the same time.

Read and Write can read your writing aloud to you, which helps many people find errors in their writing. It can also help you identify correctly spelled but misused words and help you develop a vocabulary list, among other things.

The best part is that all computers on NorQuest College's downtown Edmonton campus have Read & Write installed, and all NorQuest students can get a copy to use on their own computer for free!

If you'd like more information, or would like to access your free copy of Read & Write, log in to misiwe pehtâkwan for instructions!

These are online tools that can help you fix mistakes with spelling and grammar. Clarify with your instructor whether they will allow you to use these types of tools to assist with proofreading - using these tools without knowing clearly whether they are allowed to be used can lead to your work being flagged for academic misconduct.
It is important to know that these tools, as good as they are, can still make mistakes and it is important to still go through your paper yourself to make sure everything you have written aligns with your vision.
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