What is the 20 code at Ultius?
The 20 code is a call code that refers to a student paper or writing assignment submitted on the Ultius writing platform that requires additional review or revision before the order is marked as complete. When an Ultius writer submits a paper or assignment that is flagged with a 20 code, it means the quality control (QC) team has identified one or more issues that need to be addressed before the client receives their final paper.
Understanding what triggers a 20 code is useful for both writers and clients to know. As a writer, being aware of what prompts additional review can help improve future submissions. For clients, comprehension of the 20 code process provides transparency into how Ultius ensures high quality work. This article will explore the types of issues that result in a 20 code, how the process works, and tips for writers.
Common Reasons for a 20 Code
There are several reasons why a QC analyst might assign a 20 code to a submitted paper or assignment. Some of the most frequent triggers include:
Grammatical, spelling, or punctuation errors: Minor errors that should have been caught with a final proofread can result in a 20 code. Examples may include subject-verb agreement mistakes, missing commas, incorrect homophones, etc.
Poor formatting: Issues like incorrect or inconsistent citation style, wonky headings or lists, missing title page elements, or other formatting problems compared to guidelines would prompt a 20 code.
Weak structure or flow: Disorganized content, unclear or missing intro/conclusion, awkward transitions, or other structural weaknesses in how ideas are presented may require revision.
Citation or referencing errors: Incorrect in-text citations, errors in the works cited page, or failure to cite direct quotations are common 20 code reasons related to citation styles like APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.
Subject matter errors: Factual inaccuracies, incorrect interpretations, or other mistakes with the actual content being discussed would trigger a 20 code rework.
Plagiarism issues: Significant unique content issues, patchwriting problems, or failure to properly paraphrase sources are serious 20 code offenses.
Timeliness concerns: Papers not submitted by the agreed deadline may receive a 20 code to allow for expedited QC turnaround.
Client requests: Special requests from the client, even on an otherwise satisfactory paper, can result in a 20 code to accommodate revisions.
The 20 Code Process
When a QC analyst assigns a 20 code to a submitted paper, the writer is notified through the Ultius platform messaging system. Notifications clearly outline the specific issues requiring revision. Writers then have a defined window, usually 24-48 hours, to make the necessary changes and resubmit the paper.
Upon resubmission, the updated paper goes through QC again. If revisions adequately address the original 20 code feedback, then the paper is marked complete and sent to the client. If outstanding issues remain, the paper may receive a second 20 code notification with new revision instructions. Papers coded twice face increased monitoring and risk of rejection if quality standards are not met.
Once a 20 coded paper passes QC review on the second or subsequent attempts, the client is notified their order is finished. At that point, all communication has been between the writer and Ultius staff—clients do not see 20 codes or review details unless serious problems arise prompting customer support involvement. The goal of the process is resolution without endangering the client experience.
Tips for Avoiding 20 Codes
To minimize the potential for 20 codes and revisions, writers should focus on thoroughly proofreading and quality checking papers before initial submission. Some best practices include:
Allowing adequate time for a fresh final review, ideally after a period away from the paper. Fatigue creates blind spots.
Carefully checking for all common writing issues like grammar, structure, citations, and facts. Use spelling and grammar check tools.
Having a second party do a review, if possible, to catch errors you may have overlooked as the author.
Comparing the final paper to the exact guidelines and requirements provided for things like structure and formatting.
Reviewing feedback on past papers classified with a 20 code to learn from common mistakes. Implement applicable lessons on new work.
Thoroughly researching source material to avoid misrepresentation of facts or viewpoints. Properly attribute any cited content.
Leaving adequate time before deadlines to accommodate potential 20 code revisions without risking lateness.
The 20 code process, while creating extra steps, ultimately benefits both writers and clients at Ultius. It allows writers to improve papers and skills based on professional quality analysis. And it assures clients receive thoroughly vetted final products meeting high academic and formatting standards. With diligent proofreading upfront, most writers can avoid 20 coding situations.