Write.Teach.Tech

Using Microsoft Word to Comment and Review
by Tonya Howe

Once you have downloaded your peers’ drafts from the Discussion Board, open them in Microsoft Word and open the “Reviewing” toolbar:

The “Reviewing” toolbar looks like this:

Turn on the “Track Changes” feature by clicking the icon with the star and the pencil. Once this feature is enabled, any changes you make to the document will appear in a different color and will be associated with your personal login information (if generic information appears, go to TOOLS > OPTIONS > USER INFORMATION and enter the appropriate text).

Add a comment by clicking the file-folder icon. A space in the margin will appear, where you can add commentary on the essay. You can also use the highlighting tool that appears just beside the comment icon and even make adjustments within the body of the text. Once you have read and commented on the entire draft, add a final comment describing your overall suggestions for strengthening it. Remember that your peers will be doing the same for you; be constructive and positive, but don’t be afraid. After all, these are only your comments; your peers can take them or leave them!

I will preview this process in class, so be prepared to address any concerns you have.