Submission Tips
Format
Adhere to the
rules of the fifth edition of the MLA Handbook, including but not
limited to citing sources with parenthetical citations and composing a
works cited page.
Writing and Labeling Tips
Italicize titles of other works, e.g. books, articles, paintings, shows.
Avoid the use of contractions.
Supporting
documents, such as illustrations or charts, should be labeled and made
reference to as “Figure 1,” as opposed to “Figure One.”
Proofreading Tips
To ensure your article is clear, complete, and accurate, read your complete draft aloud while asking the following questions:
Are the parts of your article (beginning, middle, and end) distinct?
Are your ideas properly grouped into paragraphs?
Does each new paragraph begin with a transitional sentence?
Do both sentences and paragraphs follow a logical sequence?
Is any pertinent information missing?
Is any information irrelevant or confusing?
If
you detect problems relevant to the above questions, make the
appropriate changes, i.e. add facts, delete unnecessary or confusing
text, reorder sentences, and/or reorganize paragraphs.
Reread each sentence as a whole, making the obvious changes below when necessary:
Fix a fragment by connecting the incomplete thought to either the sentence before it or the sentence after it.
Eradicate run-on sentences in one of two ways.
1) Insert a semicolon or period between complete thoughts.
2) Use a subordinating word (because, when) to connect complete thoughts.
Rewrite any sentence which ends with a preposition.
Sentences must be parallel, all parts following the same format.
The subject of the sentence should be clearly understood.
Revise shifts from a person to they, you, or I and correct shifts in tenses (past, present, future).
Check subject/verb agreement.
Replace synonyms for those words used repetitively.
Final Pass
Reread, making corrections to any remaining errors in grammar, syntax, spelling, spacing, or format.
Run Spelling and Grammar Check.
REREAD! Make corrections.
Submit article to The Painter's Journal!