Editing your writing 

​​In a nutshell

This summary will help you assess the effectiveness of your own and others’ writing by looking at the layout of your written work. This helps to increase and clarify meaning.

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Layout

​While it's important to have the correct content of your writing, it's also important to have a good layout for that content. A good layout helps make sure your writing looks organised and is clear for readers to understand. ​

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Paragraphs

One of the best ways to keep your writing organised is to use paragraphs. They help you group related sentences in a sensible sequence. This makes it easier for the reader to follow and better comprehend what they are reading. 

The opening paragraph of your essay serves as an introduction, outlining the subject matter you will be writing about.  

Example

Opening paragraph:

Hello, my name is Andre Samuels, and I am an environmental activist. Today, I want to talk about global environmental problems and highlight the threats that people have posed to the planet through the increased use of plastic. And today I'm going to explain how we can save the earth.

The body paragraph provides examples and facts to further elaborate on your points.

Example

Body paragraph:

The use of plastic has increased since 2016. Given that plastic is the most enduring contaminant on the globe, this has had a significant influence on the environment. The cause of the problem is that plastic waste is frequently dumped on vacant properties, which contributes to climate change. Plastic has become a part of our daily lives, and we must put an end to it.

Lastly, the final paragraph is a conclusion that summarises all of your points and refers back to the main subject.

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Example

Final paragraph:

I became an environmental activist for the following reasons, and I implore you to do the same so that we may save the earth and make it a joyful and healthy place for our future generations.

Tip: Present paragraphs in chronological order. This keeps your writing organised and lets it flow smoothly.

Headings and subheadings

Headings and subheadings are another great way to help readers understand the topic of the piece. Headings provide the reader with an overview of the content to come: subheadings serve as short titles that explain the content of the following paragraph(s) or section. The function of headers and subheadings is to direct readers' attention and inform them of the topics covered in the body text and paragraphs.

Example

1. Space

1.1 Jupiter

The largest planet in the solar system is Jupiter. It is also the planet with the quickest rotation. Jupiter appears to have stripes and swirls in photographs, which are actually windy clouds of ammonia and water.

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Conjunctions

Conjunctions allow you to compose advanced and more understandable statements, reducing the limit of a group of short sentences. By composing interesting and compelling sentences, your writing becomes simpler to read.

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Example

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Punctuation

Proper punctuation improves clarity and helps your sentences make sense. Using the correct punctuation makes it easier for readers to comprehend the information you have given without getting overwhelmed by the volume of information coming at them.

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Example

I went to the grocery store and grabbed a packet of crisps, ice cream, drinks, chocolates, candy and waffles.

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Example

Stella's dress looks amazing! I wonder where she got it from?

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Openings and endings

In a piece of writing, the opening paragraph is crucial because it sets the readers' expectations and catches their interest. Ideally, the aim of the writing should be made clear in the opening paragraph, with a brief summary of the topic. 

The closing paragraph is your final opportunity to round up your work. This can be achieved by stating your conclusions at the end, which will persuade the reader to truly engage with your work and leave a lasting impact.