SPELLCHECK! Write a list of all the mistakes you need to look for in your copy. Then, have someone else read through your document to ensure there are no errors before spending hundreds of dollars on the final print.

If the design doesn't call for a bleed, make sure there is an adequate border around the entire document. Double check that all text and picture frames aren't cutting off the bottom of your letters or images.

If one object is shadowed on the right it makes sense that all images in the document will have a shadow on the right.

All photos and vector art should be at least 300 dpi and make sure you don't use copy generated in Photoshop.

In order for a document to appear organized, information needs to be arranged using guides and grids. Titles near the top of a page should sit in the same location on other pages.

Remember to insert ellipsis instead of pressing three periods and use an en or em dash rather than a hyphen between words.

Space between columns and around photos should be generally the same throughout the document.

Most photos need some touch-up and too many text colors can ruin a good design.

Professional layout always uses hierarchy of size, placement and color to direct the viewer eye through the document.

Some fonts are completely unreadable when used as copy and some colors will never work on a red background. Make sure people don't struggle when reading through your document.