10 Points about Proofreading from Bates

• Use a marking system that is clear and understandable to both the student and you.
• Gauge the student's response to markings -- don't overwhelm a student.
• Talk through your markings with a student in paragraph, then let them work through a set of marks on their own.
• Decide when to mark: early drafts? final drafts?
• Decide what to mark: global errors? local errors?
• ESL papers with strong organization but poor grammar can be challenging to mark or grade.
• Consider split grading: one grade for organization, one for grammar.
• Take care with end comments:
• be precise, concise and clear
• Balance feedback -- both constructive/positive and critical