Business Communication & Digital Workplace · Intermediate level

Intermediate level · Module 1: Written Business Communication · Lesson 3 of 3

Editing for Clarity

Make every document clearer, shorter and correct.

In this lesson you will

  • Edit in stages
  • Use a checklist

Key concepts

structure editsentence editproofreadingchecklist

The lesson

Edit in stages: first structure (is the order logical?), then sentences (clear, short, active), then proofreading (spelling, numbers, names).

Read aloud to catch awkward sentences, and check every figure against its source.

Ask a colleague to read important documents before sending.

Step by step

  1. Edit structure.
  2. Edit sentences.
  3. Proofread.
  4. Peer review.

Practice activity

Edit the report with the checklist.

Expected result: A clearer, error-free report.

Check your understanding

  1. Name the three editing stages.

    Show answer

    Structure, sentences and proofreading.

  2. Why read aloud?

    Show answer

    To catch awkward sentences.

Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.