Crafting a Revision Plan

Instructions

When revising your text, follow this process:

1. First, read the entire document. Don’t make any notes. Don’t correct any mistakes. Just read the text.
2. Then, write one or two sentences that summarize what you have just read. Next, read the text again.
3. This time, stop after each paragraph or section, and write one or two sentences that summarize what you have just read in that section or paragraph.
4. Finally, look at the various summaries you have created. Do they all relate to each other? Are there sections where you need to clarify more? Are there areas that need more support material or explanation?

Make notes on your text in the margins.

Continuing the Process

Moving on, take your document and your notes and begin to revise the document. Some find that starting with a fresh piece of paper or Word document is more helpful then working on the same draft. Whatever works for you, just start revising.

Helpful Suggestions for Revising

Work with a friend or peer. Ask your friend or peer to follow the steps above when reading your paper. Ask them to explain what your paper is about. Remember: it is always a good idea to let others read your work. In fact, the Capella Writing Center offers wonderful services to writers. Go see them. There is a link in the resources for this unit’s discussion.

If you are using Microsoft word, there is a “track changes” program that allows you to add comments and make changes to texts without changing the original. This is helpful when revising.

Reflection and Revision

At this point in the course, reflect on your writing process. To conduct a reflection on the process, you will want to review a variety of documents and texts from the course. Start by doing the following:

• Collect and read the feedback your peers have given you.
• Collect your various drafts and outlines.
• Review the comments your instructor has made.

As you read all the information, make note of the various areas your readers have commented on or critiqued. Do you see either similarities or differences in the comments and critiques offered to you?

Now, craft a revision plan based on the comments and observations you have collected and reviewed. This revision plan needs to include the following:

• A listing of three areas that need improvement.
• A detailed timeline of work still to be completed.
• A list of any elements of the writing process that you feel you need more information on to complete the revision.

The revision plan should be at least two pages.

Your plan will scored on the following criteria:

1. Create a revision plan that refers to comments from instructor and peer.
2. Identify three areas for improvement.
3. Craft a schedule that addresses elements of the writing process.

Note: Your instructor may also use the Writing Feedback Tool to give you feedback on your writing. In the tool, click the linked resources for helpful writing information.

Resources