Here's a breakdown:
* Grammar: This includes subject-verb agreement, pronoun agreement, correct tense usage, and proper sentence structure.
* Spelling: Look for misspelled words, including proper nouns and technical terms. Use a spell checker, but be aware that it might not catch all errors.
* Punctuation: Pay attention to commas, periods, semicolons, colons, apostrophes, quotation marks, and other punctuation marks. Ensure they are used correctly.
* Formatting: Check for consistent font, font size, margins, line spacing, and paragraph indentation. Make sure headings and subheadings are appropriately formatted.
While you should also consider clarity, flow, and overall effectiveness during proofreading, these are often better addressed during earlier stages of the writing process like revising and editing.
Remember, proofreading is the final step before submitting your work. It's crucial to have a fresh pair of eyes look over your writing, as you might miss mistakes you've become accustomed to.