Reading out loud, may not seem like the most fun or important thing to do when when writing a paper. But as it turns out, it is actually very useful and helpful.
Of course, this tip is something the genius of a teacher, Mr. Neuendorf taught my Composition 2 class this semester. He suggested doing this before you turn in your paper.
So after all of the editing is done and all of the things you can think of have been adjusted, you read from start to end and mark errors as you go. Hearing the words out loud may be useful in finding what does or does in fact not work.
You'll be able to tell what sounds right and what doesn't make sense at all that you may not have figured out when reading silently in your head. Like sentences that don't contribute to the purpose at all or words that are mixed up.
It might even be a good idea to read the paper backwards or to a family member or friend, someone you trust to tell you the truth.
That way, you make sure you have every piece of the puzzle set in place. You have a strong intro, a good thesis, supporting paragraphs, maybe citations, and a conclusion.
Take it from me, I did not read my paper aloud and I'm positive it could have benefitted from doing this extra step. Try it and find out. Doing the exercise couldn't hurt one bit. Good Luck!
-Olivia Herr
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