The Double Check Method to Avoid Mistakes

The Double Check Method is a simple but effective strategy to help avoid mistakes and improve the accuracy of your work. It involves reviewing your work twice to ensure everything is correct and well thought out. Here’s a breakdown of how to apply this method:

1. First Check:

• Complete the Task: Start by completing the task fully without worrying too much about mistakes.

• Focus on the Process: During this first check, focus more on the overall process rather than perfection. Try to finish the task in a reasonable time frame, keeping your focus on completing the task rather than checking every small detail.

2. Second Check:

• Review Carefully: After completing the task, take a break (if possible) and then come back to review your work with fresh eyes.

• Look for Mistakes: This second check should involve actively looking for mistakes. Check the details that could be easily overlooked.

• Ask Key Questions: Can I improve this? Does this make sense? Have I followed the right steps? This helps you spot errors you might have missed during the first pass.

  

3. Additional Tips:

• Read Your Proposal Out Loud: This helps catch awkward phrasing or errors.

• Use Tools: Take advantage of tools such as grammar checkers or calculators to support your review.

• Involve Someone Else: If feasible, ask someone else to double-check your work. A fresh perspective can help catch mistakes you’ve overlooked.

• Review Your Work Twice: First for quality, then for the specifics of the client’s brief.

• Ask Yourself: “Does this deliver exactly what the client asked for?”

Why it works:

By following the Double Check Method, you give yourself the best chance to catch errors, improve your accuracy, and ensure the quality of your work. This method saves you from embarrassing mistakes and ensures your work always hits the mark.