Introduction

Recommended Editing and Proofreading Tools

Recommended Editing and Proofreading Tools

Whether designing course materials, providing feedback to students, or preparing research for publication, clear and polished communication is essential. The Teaching and Learning Innovation Hub recommends the following tools to help with proofreading and editing.

1. Microsoft Editor

Microsoft Editor logo

Integrated directly into Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and other Office applications, Microsoft Editor offers an intuitive way to enhance your writing. Learn more about Microsoft Editor here.

Why We Love Microsoft Editor:

  • Grammar and Spell Checks: Catch misspellings and check for grammar, capitalization, and punctuation errors.
  • Clarity and Conciseness: In-line recommendations can help you simplify complex concepts.
  • Tone Detection: Helps maintain an appropriate tone.

Microsoft Editor is available as a free browser extension for Chrome and Edge, making it easy to improve your writing anywhere online—not just in Microsoft Office. Try it in Moodle, email, social media, online forms, documents, and more.

2. Microsoft Copilot 

Microsoft copilot logoMicrosoft Copilot AI is designed to save time while enhancing productivity. Whether you want to check the tone of professional emails, or ensure your assessment instructions are clear and concise, Copilot can assist in many tasks.

  • Proofreading and Tone: Perfect for providing constructive feedback when writing formal, professional messages.
  • Style and Clarity: Offers recommendations to enhance writing style, tone, and clarity to ensure your messages are effective.
  • Email Drafting: Can help draft emails, summarize lengthy threads, and adjust tone depending on your preferred communication style.

Guidelines for Using Copilot

The Hub’s Microsoft Copilot AI page contains information on accessing Copilot, prompt ideas and guidelines, and more.

When recommending Copilot to students or using it for assignments, it is vital to clarify expectations about generative AI use in academic work. Visit the Hub’s GenAI Resource Page for guidelines and sample syllabus statements.

3. Goblin Tools

Goblin Tools logoFor those looking to go beyond traditional editing tools, Goblin Tools provides unique features tailored to enhance creativity and productivity. The Formalizer is particularly useful for adjusting tone and formalizing writing—a great asset for emails or any other writing you want to sound professional.

Goblin Tools also includes task simplifiers and estimators, which can simplify complex tasks into actionable steps—a great resource for both students and faculty. Goblin Tools can be accessed here.


If you have any questions or need help getting started using any of these tools, do not hesitate to reach out to the Hub Team for assistance.