Checklist for a Formal Essay

Format -- Presentation
1. _____ Typed, twelve-point font, Times New Roman, double-spaced.
2. _____ Correct singled-spaced heading in the upper left hand corner
Example:
Smith, Jane
Mrs. Rhude
English, Period 3
14 January 2010
3. _____ Original title in twelve-point font, Times New Roman, centered below the heading (no lines skipped from
heading).
4. _____ Original title where all words are capitalized except for articles and prepositions made up of five letters or
less. (No underlining or quotation marks.)
5. _____ One-inch margins all around.
6. _____ Each paragraph is indented, and double-spaced. (No double-spacing between separate paragraphs.)
Grammar and Mechanics -- Conventions
1. _____ Check for spelling errors.
2. _____ Check that all contractions are spelled out. (For example, didnt should be did not)
3. _____ Check that verb tense is consistent. When writing about literature, one should use present tense.
4. _____ Check that the word you is not used (do not use first or second person).
5. _____ Make sure there are no I statements. (For example, I think or I believe)
6. _____ Check that each sentence begins with a different word.
7. _____ Check for a variety of sentences. (Simple sentences, compound sentences, etc.)
8. _____ Check for fragments. (An incomplete thought due to missing a subject or verb.)
9. _____ Check for run-ons.
10._____ Check for correct end punctuation, use of quotations, and capitalization.
11._____ Check for correct comma and semi-colon use.
12._____ Check for correct pronoun-antecedent agreement and subject-verb agreement.
13._____ Check that numbers 0-100 and under are written out as words.
14. _____Check that abbreviations are not used
15. _____Check that you do not use colloquial language (slang)
Coherence, Unity, and Clarity -- Organization
1. _____ Check that the topic sentence of each paragraph includes the paragraphs subject and commentary.
2. _____ Check that all the sentences support the topic sentence and adhere to the prompt.
3. _____ Check for sentences that sound awkward or unclear.
4. _____ Check that each paragraph makes sense.
5. _____ Check for transitional words and phrases that allow the paragraph to flow smoothly.
6. _____ Check for a concluding sentence that adequately summarizes the paragraph or makes a final statement
about the paragraph.
Content
1. _____ Check for grade-level appropriate vocabulary.
2. _____ Check for audience and purpose.
3. _____ Check that tone is appropriate to purpose.
4. _____ Check for formal language. (no slang)
5. _____ Check for relevant evidence that supports the topic. (Facts and examples)
6. _____ Check that the topic is discussed in an interesting, engaging way. (Insightful)
7. _____ Check that evidence is specific and thorough.
8. _____ Check for redundancy.
Drafts
1. _____ Pre-write (For example, a list of brainstorm ideas, outline, note cards.)
2. _____ Revised draft(s) Must show proof of editing (most current draft on top)
3. _____ Final draft (on top)
Rubric
1. _____ Check that essay is written according to the rubric