The H.O.W. (Heading, Organization, Writing)
Guide to Neat Papers*

 

Student Directions: Check your written work.  Does it follow these guidelines?

 

Is the heading of the paper complete?  Did I write:

 

  • my first and last name?

 

  • today’s date?

 

  • the school subject?

 

  • the page number (if required)?

 

Is the paper organized, as shown by:

 

  • my writing on the front side of the paper only?

 

  • neat and even left and right margins?

 

  • proper use of spacing?

 

Did I write neatly?  Are:

 

  • my words and numbers written on the lines?

 

  • my word and numbers carefully and neatly written?

 

  • all erased or crossed out words done neatly?

 

*Adapted from Gleason, M.M., Colvin, G., & Archer, A.L.  (1991).  Interventions for improving study skills.  In G. Stoner, M.R. Shinn, & H.M. Walker (Eds.) Interventions for achievement and behavior problems.  National Association of School Psychologists: Silver Springs, MD.