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Introduction to Revision

Author: Sophia
what's covered
This tutorial considers the role of revision in the writing process, and its importance to writers of all experience levels:

  1. Revision and the Writing Process
  2. The Importance of Revision


1. Revision and the Writing Process

The writing process is made up of these repeatable steps:

  • Prewriting
  • Brainstorming
  • Thesis generation
  • Research
  • Drafting
  • Revising
  • Editing
  • Proofreading

Revision is the process of re-visioning a written work — that is, the process of looking at it again. It involves evaluation of the ideas, supporting information and organization of a work, and changes required as a result of that evaluation.

term to know
Revision
A step in the writing process that involves "re-visioning" an essay or other writing project.

It's important to understand the difference between revision and editing. Editing focuses on improving language, clarity, and style at the sentence and word levels. Revision is a look at the entire draft. Revision is also different from proofreading, in which mistakes in grammar, mechanics, and spelling are identified and corrected.

Editing and proofreading are the final steps in the writing process. Before editing or proofreading a written work, you must first revise to ensure that the goals of the work have been accomplished. Although beginning writers sometimes overlook revision, subsequent steps in the process (i.e., editing and proofreading) will not correct errors that must be addressed during revision.

hint
Writers often revise their work many times, producing multiple drafts. Professional writers may complete dozens of drafts before publishing their work.


2. The Importance of Revision

Revision enables writers to assess and improve their work at the "big picture" level. During the revision step, writers take stock of their entire project. They confirm that the thesis is well-supported, and that the structure enhances a smooth, logical presentation of ideas.

Because the revision step, like the other steps in the writing process, is repeatable, you should revise as many times as necessary to improve your work. Revision is also a good way to overcome writer's block. Experienced writers know that they must revise, usually more than once, to realize the potential value of their work.


summary
This tutorial examined the role of revision in the writing process. Revision enables writers to ensure that their work is as interesting, convincing, and readable as possible.

Source: Adapted from Sophia Instructor Gavin McCall

Terms to Know
Revision

A key step in the writing process that involves re-visioning an essay or other writing project.