Revising, Editing, and Proofreading Research Methodology

1. Department of English
Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University
Date: 3 April 2024
Sem 4। Batch 2022-24
Research Methodology
Revising, Editing, and
Proofreading
Prepared by Upasna Goswami

2. Revising, Editing, and
Proofreading

3. ➢ RolName: Upasna Goswami
➢ lno.20
➢ EnrollmentNo.4069206420220012
➢ Sem:4
➢ PaperName:ResearchMethodology
➢ Paperno. :209
➢ PaperCode :22416
➢ Submitted to : S. B. Gardi Department of
English,M.K.B.U
➢ Email:goswamiupasna339@gmail.com

4. What is research
methodology?
Research methodology is the theoretical and systematic analysis of the methods applied to a field of study. It involves examining the underlying
philosophical assumptions, strategies, designs, methods, and techniques employed in conducting research within a particular discipline.
Research methodology aims to provide a comprehensive framework for planning, executing, and evaluating research in a rigorous and
systematic manner. It encompasses various aspects, including the research philosophy (e.g., positivism, interpretivism), research approach
(deductive or inductive), research design (experimental, survey, case study), data collection methods (surveys, interviews, observations), data
analysis techniques (quantitative or qualitative), sampling strategies, ethical considerations, and measures to ensure validity and reliability. By
explicitly defining and justifying the methodological choices, research methodology enhances the transparency, rigor, and credibility of the
research process, ultimately contributing to the generation of sound and defensible findings within the field of study. (Vandenberg-Daves)

5. Research writing is the process of sharing the answer to your research question along with the evidence on which your answer is based, the
sources you used, and your own reasoning and explanation. (Asma)
1. Answering a research question with evidence and sources
2. Organising and presenting information clearly
3. Learning scholarly conventions like citations and formatting
4. Developing time management skills
5. Exploring a topic in-depth
6. Following a structured process with steps like researching, drafting, revising
7. Using and evaluating both primary and secondary sources
8. Analysing evidence critically to support a thesis
9. Properly citing sources to avoid plagiarism
What is Research writing?

6. History of Editing
Editing is an English word that is related to “copious” from the Latin
root that means plenty or abundance (Gilad, 2007: 46). In Germany, late
fifteenth century, was the time printing replaced script. Editors have
been given more eminence in the sixteenth century than they had ever
had or would have again in the history of editing. Editorial abuses were
widespread in 1546. For instance, Francesco Doni’s statement about the
way editors work on writings was “one editor corrects in one way and
another otherwise, some delete, some insert, some flay [the text] and
others damage its hide .... [Beware of] stubborn editors, because they
don’t follow what is written but carry on in their own way.” (Bell, 2007:
188) The end of the 1530 was the time when works of authors were
getting published, and those authors had to figure out how to treat
writers not only writings. The question, though, was who controlled a
book-the person who wrote it or the one who made it possible for people
to carry it around and read it at their leisure? (Azeez)
The noun version of editing refers to the process of
preparing a piece of work to be used for a specific
purpose by correcting or improving it to a high
standard.
The verb form of the word editing refers to the action
of carrying out the above process.(Haugen)
Definition for editing

7. ● Reviewing
Before initiating the editing process, scholars should re-examine the layout of their research papers. Doing so allows them to determine the number of sections in
their documents and the contents of each section.
This step is necessary to ensure that scholars get a holistic view of the research paper.
A preferable method to review the outline of a document is to draw it separately along with some notes on what each chapter comprises.
● Choosing an editing approach
The next step in the process is for scholars to decide how they want to edit a document. Or, to be more precise, which tools they want to use for editing purposes.
There are primarily two methods of editing - computer-based and paper-based.The former method requires scholars to use credible word-processors, such as
Microsoft Word and open office, to edit their documents. It is currently a preferred method among academics due to the numerous advantages it offers. Some of
these include grammatical suggestions, a thesaurus for synonyms/antonyms, and readily available citation styles.
● Deciding on the starting point
Once a copy of the outline is ready, and the editing method is decided, the next step is to determine a starting point for the editing process.Scholars should assess
which section of their research paper will require how much time and resources. To do so, they should take into consideration the complexity or length, or both,
of each section. Subsequently, they should create a priority list and use it to schedule the editing process.This step is crucial as it enables scholars to deal with the
most problematic components of their documents first.
Making the edits
After the preparations are complete, it is time for scholars to edit their research papers meticulously and earnestly.(Haugen)
Under this step, scholars should check their documents for the following:
Grammatical errors Contextual errors Tonal inconsistencies Factual contentions
Weakness of their arguments Appropriate usage of Words and their Synonyms
How to Edit ?

8. What is Revising ?
1. Revision was traditionally viewed as simply a "tidying-up" activity to eliminate surface errors like grammar,
punctuation, spelling after completing a first draft. This is the outdated "three-stage linear model" of writing.
2. Recent research shows that revision is a more complex activity, with writers moving back and forth between drafting
and revising throughout the composing process, not just at the end.
3. The authors propose a taxonomy to analyze the effects of revisions on meaning. The main distinction is between:
- Surface Changes that do not affect the core meaning
- Meaning Changes that add new information or remove existing information
4. Surface Changes are further divided into:
- Formal Changes like spelling, punctuation, format changes
- Meaning-Preserving Changes that modify syntax/phrasing without changing meaning
5. Meaning Changes add new content that cannot be inferred, or delete existing content that removes meaning.
6. Studying revision effects can reveal differences between skilled and unskilled writers in the types of revisions they
make. (Faigley and Witte)

9. Revising Changes
(Faigley and Witte)

10. Strategies for Revising
1. Confirming Purpose and Main Claim: The first step in the revision process is to confirm that the draft actually serves the purpose outlined in the
introduction. In case the paper hasn’t done so, you need to either revise your purpose, or revise the paper so that it addresses the purpose
.
2. Identifying and Checking Support for Major Claims: The main claim of the paper will be supported by sub-claims; these will need to be adequately
supported as well. Ensure that you’ve provided sufficient supporting data (your own or from others) and explained how that information supports your claims.
For example, if your paper recommends a solution (its main claim), one supporting claim would be that Solution X has certain benefits. In order for that
supporting claim to be warranted, you would have to provide sources or data from your own work that confirm those benefits.
3. Check Against Your Outline: Begin the revision process by comparing your first draft to your outline, and asking the following questions
● Does your draft match your outline?
● If not, why not? Is your revision to the outline warranted, or would your original structure be better?
● Where are the gaps in information in your draft; where might you have to add more information? What information is unnecessary, or tangential?
4. Checking on a Paragraph Level: With each paragraph, you should be able to:
● Easily identify a prominent and accurate topic sentence (near the beginning)
● Identify the paragraph’s role in its section and in the document as a whole
● Identify an organizational strategy or structure that the paragraph uses to accomplish its purpose; assess whether or not that structure is an efficient one,
or if there may be a better structure . (Faigley and Witte)

11. Revising isn’t the first step in the process of writing a research paper, but it is perhaps the most important. Many students skip the revision process,
mistaking editing for revision. While editing is also very important, revision is an integral part of any good writing process. During revision, you
should try to see your work from different perspectives and different angles. When you revise, it’s particularly important to keep your target
audience in mind. You may need to make changes to content and organization. You may have to go back to the research stage of your process to
find more information. You may need to cut out information that doesn’t relate to your thesis or focus. Revision is about making big changes to
your writing to improve flow, development, and focus.It’s best to allow some time between drafting and revision. If you can take a break from your
writing and come back to it a few days or even a week later, you’re more likely to be able to see where you need to revise. (Azeez)
Revision Checklist
● Have I conveyed the significance of my ideas to my readers? Is my purpose clear?
● Does my essay meet the requirements of my assignment?
● Is my focus too broad? Have I narrowed my topic well?
● Is my organization plan effective?
● Is there a way to make the concept I am discussing clearer and more focused?
● Is the voice or style I am using appropriate for my audience?
● Have I clearly defined any terms used?
● Have I considered any possible objections to my position, if I take a position in this research essay?
● Do I provide clear transitions between my ideas? Are there any gaps between my points?
● Are there any points that need further explanation or detail?
● Are there any points that need to be cut because they are not related to my focus?
● Are my sources credible? Have I addressed this credibility in my writing?
● Have I integrated my source material smoothly and effectively by providing signal phrases and/or context for this information?
● Have I put some source material in my own words as much as possible and used quotes only when necessary?
● Have I properly acknowledged all of my source material, including paraphrases and summaries? (Nair and Kumar)

12. Definition of proofreading
The dictionary explanation of proofreading is while someone proofreads something such as a book or an article, he/she reads it prior to its
publication so that finding and marking mistakes that needs to be corrected (Chang, Chang, & Hsu, 2009: 25). Proofreading is for sure a
reading skill. However, involving different skills from reading, it “involves a deliberate effort to counteract the ‘normal’ process of reading.”
(Harris, 1987: 464) (Azeez)
Proofreading involves carefully reading through a written document before publication/distribution to find and mark any errors or mistakes
that need to be corrected.It goes beyond simply rereading, as proofreading requires a deliberate effort and strategies to counteract the normal
reading process in order to catch errors. Proofreading is a necessary but rarely taught skill that facilitates spelling and writing
development.Simply glancing over a document is not true proofreading - it requires uninterrupted concentration and a systematic process.
Effective proofreading involves knowing what types of errors to look for, when to proofread, and how to properly mark and correct the errors
found. Proofreading symbols can be useful tools to efficiently mark errors during the proofreading process.
To proofread well, one must have knowledge of what constitutes different types of writing errors and issues to watch for. (Azeez)

13. Proofreading Difficulties
Deficiencies in proofreading skills are usually due to a lack of instruction rather than
“carelessness, laziness, lack of motivation, dishonesty-or even mediocre verbal skills” (West,
1983: 286). The other difficulties could be difficulties of texts, comprehension; text style and
text familiarities and unfamiliarities (Bell, 2008). Some other problems with proofreading are
stylistic, spelling and typos, homophones and passive voice, nominalization, sentence
structure, fragments, comma splices, and run-ons. However, owe to the time refrains, some of
them are going to be explained (Madraso, 1993). (Azeez)

14. Differences between Proofreading and Editing
Proofreading
● Proofreading is the final stage after editing to catch
any remaining errors
● Proofreading requires viewing the text at a micro
level, separating language components from meaning
to catch errors precisely.
● Editing allows for major revisions, rewriting parts,
altering content and syntax to improve clarity and
flow.
● Proofreaders focus on catching mechanical errors in
spelling, punctuation, capitalization, typos and
adherence to style guides.
● Proofreading skills are centered on a keen eye for
detail and in-depth knowledge of language
mechanics.
● Proofreading aims to hammer the copy into a
polished, error-free perfection. (Azeez)
Editing
● Editing occurs earlier in the writing process before
proofreading.
● Editing involves analyzing and resynthesizing
conceptual chunks to clarify, strengthen and condense
the message. It looks at the "big picture".
● Editing allows for major revisions, rewriting parts,
altering content and syntax to improve clarity and
flow.
● Editors analyze voice, language, plot, argument and
maintain consistency in grammar and tone.
● Editing requires higher-level skills in clarifying
thought, considering reader needs, conciseness, word
choice etc.
● The goal of editing is to form a coherent, effectively
expressed whole message.(Azeez)

15. Conclusion
In conclusion, revising, editing, and proofreading are indispensable components of the research writing
process. Revision ensures your paper has a clear focus, logical organization, and thoroughly developed
ideas. Editing polishes your writing style, flow, and consistency at the paragraph and sentence level.
Finally, careful proofreading catches and corrects any remaining mechanical errors.
Though often overlooked, dedicating sufficient time to these steps is critical for producing a well-crafted,
error-free, and professionally presented research paper. Mastering these skills will not only improve the
quality of your academic writing but will also serve you well in your future professional endeavors. Don't
underestimate the importance of revising, editing, and proofreading - the effort is worthwhile to create a
polished final product that effectively communicates your research.

16. References
Asma. “What is Research Writing | How To Write Perfectly | Guide.” YouTube: Home, 9 November 2017, https://sg-educate.com/what-is-research-
writing/. Accessed 3 April 2024.
Azeez, Dr. Paiman Zorab. “Investigating Editing and Proofreading Strategies used by Koya University Lecturers.” YouTube: Home, 9 November 2017,
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Paiman-
Azeez/publication/346045373_Investigating_Editing_and_Proofreading_Strategies_used_by_Koya_University_Lecturers/links/5fb83719a6fdc
c6cc6547bb8/Investigating-Editing-and-Proofreading-Strategies-used-by-Koya-Univer. Accessed 3 April 2024.
Dr. Swarooprani. K. “(PDF) An Study of Research Methodology.” ResearchGate, June 2022,
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/361807570_An_Study_of_Research_Methodology. Accessed 3 April 2024.
Faigley, Lester, and Stephen Witte. “Analyzing Revision.” YouTube: Home, 9 November 2017, https://www.jstor.org/stable/356602?seq=2. Accessed
3 April 2024.
Harwood, Nigel, and Liz Austin. “Proofreading in a UK university: Proofreaders’ beliefs, practices, and experiences.” YouTube: Home, 9 November
2017, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1060374309000216. Accessed 3 April 2024.

17. Haugen, Diane. “Coming to Terms with Editing.” YouTube: Home, 9 November 2017,
https://www.jstor.org/stable/40171168?searchText=editing+in+research+writing&searchUri=%2Faction%2FdoBasicSearch%
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eqid=fastly-default%3Aa1d25933ac957b34ca. Accessed 3 April 2024.
MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers. Modern Language Association of America, 2009. Accessed 3 April 2024.
Nair, Anagha, and Mukesh Kumar. “Different Types of Editing in Research.” Enago, 10 September 2023,
https://www.enago.com/academy/types-of-editing/. Accessed 3 April 2024.
“Revising, Editing and Proofreading.” Engineering Communication Program, https://ecp.engineering.utoronto.ca/resources/online-
handbook/the-writing-process/revising-editing-and-proofreading/. Accessed 3 April 2024.
Vandenberg-Daves, Jodi. Modern Motherhood: An American History. Rutgers University Press, 2014. Accessed 3 April 2024.