When you have completed CHAPTER 8, you should be able to:

• Use a dictionary and a thesaurus to select the correct word.
• Use spelling rules to improve your spelling.
• Recognize and correct errors in thought units.
• Write effective sentences and paragraphs.
• Revise, edit, and proofread documents.

When you have finished Section 8.1, you will be able to:

• Use a dictionary to obtain information about the spelling, definition, capitalization, and hyphenation of words.
• Use a thesaurus to find words that will make your writing more precise.
• Avoid using words that are incorrect, overused, out of date, or inappropriate for the audience.

When you have finished Section 8.2, you will be able to:

• Describe the rule of doubling a final consonant, giving examples to illustrate the rule.
• Discuss at least three other spelling principles that almost always hold true.
• Name two ways to ensure the correct spelling of words for which there are no rules.

When you have finished Section 8.3, you will be able to:

• Recognize and correct errors in thought units composed of words, phrases, and clauses.
• Recognize and correct errors in pronoun references.

When you have finished Section 8.4, you will be able to:

• Compose sentences that use the you-attitude and positive words.
• Use planned repetition for emphasis and avoid writing sentences with excessive repetition of sounds.
• Use subordination and coordination properly, and correct so and and so faults.
• Use the active and passive voices appropriately.

When you have finished Section 8.5, you will be able to:

• Write paragraphs that have one main idea, sentences that relate to the main idea of the paragraph, and messages that have a definite purpose.
• Use transitional words and phrases to connect sentences and paragraphs.
• Use variety in sentence length and sentence structure to make written communication more interesting.

When you have finished Section 8.6, you will be able to:

• Describe revising, editing, and proofreading.
• Explain the importance of revising your written communications.
• Use a revision checklist to improve the organization, wording, and tone of your written communication.
• Apply the six Cs of editing to your written communication.
• Explain why proofreading written work is essential.
• Follow the five steps in proofreading.
• Use proofreaders' marks and technology when revising, editing, and proofreading.