Symbols Used in Grading

Delete
Close up (eliminate space, make one word)
Insert

Common Problems in Paper #1

Problem	Solution
Comma splices, fragments, run-ons, subject-verb agreement errors.	Get help in the Writing Center.
Not double spacing.	Double space.
No title.	Provide a title.
Using “like” to introduce an example. He enjoys dangerous activities like skydiving.	Use “such as.” He enjoys dangerous activities, such as skydiving.
Using “they,” “their,” or “them” to refer back to “everyone,” “anyone,” or “someone.” Everyone brought their on beer.	Use a third-person singular pronoun. Everyone brought his or her own beer. Change “everyone,” “anyone,” or “someone” to another word All the guests brought their own beer.
Creating a dangling modifier. Going into the store, a strange odor filled the air.	Provide an appropriate subject. Going into the store, I smelled a strange odor.
Misusing the word “quoted.” George Bush quoted, “Read my lips: no new taxes.	Use “quoted” when the speaker or writer is quoting someone else; otherwise, choose another verb. George Bush stated, “Read my lips: no new taxes.
Writing “a lot” as one word. alot	Write the expression as two words. a lot
Using “that” to refer to people. The man that came to dinner stayed too long.	Use “who,” “whose,” or “whom” to refer to people. The man who came to dinner stayed too long.
Using “planning on” or “intending on” instead of “planning to” or “intending to.” I am planning on going to the movie.	Use “planning to” or “intending to.” I am planning to go to the movie.
Beginning a sentence with “now” or “well.” Well, I disagree with his statement.	Just eliminate it. I disagree with his statement.
Including more than one indication of time. After the party, she then went home.	Include only one indication of time. After the party, she went home.
Not hyphenating “10-year-old” when it is used as an adjective. She has a 10 year old child. The 10 year old is doing well in school.	Hyphenate “10-year-old” when it is used as as an adjective or noun. She has a 10-year-old child. The 10-year-old is doing well in school.