ARMS Revision Checklist

Check off each step AFTER it has been completed.

_____ 1. Read the paper. Does it make sense? Have words been left out
_____ 2.Highlight the lead in green
_____ 3. Highlight the thesis/ main idea in blue.
_____ 4. Highlight transition words in yellow. Make sure the correct transition words are
used; if not, Substitute new ones.
_____ 5. Add information, transition words, topic sentences, supporting details,
descriptive language quotes.
_____6. Remove information that doesnt support your main idea/thesis by drawing a
line through it.
_____ 7. Move any details that are not in the correct order. You may also need to move
whole paragraphs so the paper is logically organized.
_____ 8. Substitute overused words with words for new ones:
NTSSBWTSWIEP:
Bold the first word of every sentence. No two sentences should begin with the same
word in each paragraph.
NTPBWTSW:
Italicize the first word of every paragraph. No two paragraphs should begin
with the same word.
In red, highlight words/phrases that are repeated several times. Highlight them
each time they appear. The author should Substitute with synonyms,
pronouns, etc. or Remove them.
_____9. In the conclusion, highlight the restated/reworded thesis statement in blue.
_____10. Underline the concluding sentence. If you cannot find it, the author needs to
Add it and make it clear.