Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
a draft of the article
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "a draft of the article" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an initial version of an article that is not yet finalized. Example: "I have completed a draft of the article and would like your feedback before submitting it for publication."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Alternative expressions(3)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
9 human-written examples
He said she had approved a draft of the article and was copied in on correspondence.
News & Media
He submitted a draft of the article in 1984, and several drafts subsequently, but year after year it remain unpublished.
News & Media
Wiener accepted the invitation and wrote a draft of the article; the legendarily autocratic Markel was dissatisfied and asked him to rewrite it.
News & Media
I saw the top portion of a draft of the article prepared by Mr. Roberts in which the age range was first mentioned in the 10th paragraph.
News & Media
The writing was left to a reporter in New York, she said, who read a draft of the article to Sunny before it went to print.
News & Media
Both MJF and JMB wrote a draft of the article.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
47 human-written examples
According to an article last week in The New York Times by Adam Liptak, the justice's office received a draft of the proposed article and returned it to the newspaper the same day, tweaked and tidied up.
News & Media
In addition to the "for Neville" e-mail, News International lawyers were also shown a draft of the unpublished article about what was said to have been an affair between Mr. Taylor and his assistant.
News & Media
In Harper's, he notes, "A draft of this article arrived with the envelope cut open and taped shut".
News & Media
Click on My Drafts in the column to the right of any page, or click on the article you have a draft of, click the article "edits" tab, and choose "edit" in "Existing Drafts".
Wiki
Before publication, I sent Reiko a draft of this article.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When sharing "a draft of the article" for review, clearly indicate what kind of feedback you are seeking (e.g., content, grammar, structure) to help reviewers focus their efforts.
Common error
Avoid treating "a draft of the article" as if it requires no further revision. Recognize that drafts are inherently works in progress and benefit from critical review and refinement.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a draft of the article" functions as a noun phrase. According to Ludwig, it's used to refer to a preliminary version of an article, typically before it's finalized or published. The examples provided showcase its use in various contexts, including academic and journalistic writing.
Frequent in
Science
32%
News & Media
56%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Wiki
4%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "a draft of the article" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a preliminary version of a written work. Ludwig’s analysis confirms its frequent appearance in news, media, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, remember that a draft is inherently a work in progress, and be clear about the type of feedback you're seeking when sharing it for review. Alternatives like "preliminary version" or "early version" can be used for variety. Always ensure that any version shared for review is clear and well-structured, recognizing that drafts are the foundation for a final, polished article.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a preliminary version of the article
This alternative emphasizes the initial and unpolished nature of the article.
an early version of the article
Focuses on the timing, suggesting it is one of the first iterations.
a working draft of the article
Implies the article is still in progress and subject to changes.
a manuscript version of the article
Refers to the article in its pre-publication form.
the initial draft of the article
Highlights that this is the very first attempt at writing the article.
a revised draft of the article
Specifies that the draft has undergone changes or corrections.
a pre-publication copy of the article
Indicates the version before it is officially published.
the submitted version of the article
Refers to the version that was sent for review or publication.
the article's first iteration
Uses a more formal term to denote the initial version.
a proof copy of the article
This is usually the version that is checked for errors before final printing.
FAQs
What does it mean to submit "a draft of the article"?
Submitting "a draft of the article" means you are providing an initial version of your work for review, feedback, or consideration for publication. It's understood that the draft is not the final version and may require further revisions.
How can I improve "a draft of the article" before submitting it?
Before submitting, review and revise your draft for clarity, coherence, and accuracy. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors. Check for grammatical errors and ensure your arguments are well-supported.
What is the difference between "a draft of the article" and the final published version?
The final published version has undergone revisions, editing, and proofreading, while "a draft of the article" is a preliminary version that may contain errors or require further development. The published version is considered the authoritative and definitive form.
What should I include when sending "a draft of the article" to a colleague for review?
When sharing "a draft of the article", provide context about the purpose of the article, the target audience, and the specific areas where you'd like feedback. This helps your colleague provide more targeted and helpful suggestions.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested