Getting The Job

Today in my readings I found an interesting fact that the book points out. They said that readers of job application letters and resumes, may reject applications if they contain a single error if only because it's an easy way to eliminate potential candidates. This is a useful tip to know since I will be looking for a job once I graduate, which isn't too far away. In order to have a good resume or letter you must edit and proofread your paper. 

Editing is the stage when you work on the details of your paragraphs, sentences, words, and punctuation to make sure your writing is clear, precise, correct, and as effective as possible. They say the goal isn't to make your writing "perfect" but to make sure it is effective in reaching your audience or purpose. I also find this an excellent tip because everyone thinks if your paper is punctually and grammatically correct then it is perfect. Yet if you don't reach your purpose then it is ineffective. The book also says to make sure you know the meaning of every word in your writing. If I am unsure if I have used to word in the write text I always look it up and make sure it fits with the sentence, which they say is a good thing to do. Always make sure if you use words like "he" or "they" or "it", that your readers will know precisely who you are talking about. Another common mistake many people, including myself, do is use language that could be considered sexist. Like using words such as manpower and policeman when referring to people who may be women.

Next is proofreading. Proofreading is the final stage of the writing process, the point where you clean up your work to present it to your readers. I really have to get myself to try if I want to be an effective proofreader. The book says proofreading demands that you slow down your reading and examine every word and punctuation mark. This is hard for me because I don't like to read slow and take the time to study each word.