The final polish

Proofreading is the last pass for spelling, grammar, formatting, and small errors, after the writing and ideas are done. AI is a good extra set of eyes here, on text you have already written.

Proofread this text for spelling, grammar, and punctuation only.
List the errors you find. Do not change my ideas or wording beyond fixing errors.

But do not rely on AI alone. The strongest checks are still human:

• Read your work aloud to catch awkward sentences
• Read it on paper or a different screen
• Ask a friend to read a chapter

Leave time for this. A well proofread dissertation signals care, and care earns trust from your markers.

Practice

Proofread one chapter using both AI and reading aloud. Note which method caught errors the other missed.