What is the primary goal of revising a draft?

• A. To add new ideas without changing existing text
• B. To make major changes to the draft for more clarity
• C. To format citations and references
• D. To finalize the title and cover page

Answer: (B)

The main task in revising is to strengthen how the ideas are presented by making substantial changes to the content and structure so the writing is clearer and more effective. When revising, you look at the overall flow and development: does the argument or story unfold logically, do paragraphs support the central message, are transitions smooth, and is any material repetitive or missing crucial details? You may reorganize sections, add needed information, cut unnecessary parts, and rewrite sentences for clarity. This is why the choice that emphasizes making major changes to the draft for more clarity is the best fit. Formatting citations or finalizing a title and cover page are separate tasks (editing or publishing steps) and don’t address improving the draft’s meaning and structure in a substantive way.