English Idioms. Accuracy matters.

The sentence "Be sure to cross the t's and dot the i's" is an idiomatic expression that means paying attention to small details and ensuring everything is done accurately and precisely. It is often used to emphasize the importance of being thorough and meticulous in completing a task or handling a situation.

The expression refers to two specific letters in the English alphabet, "t" and "i," and their respective diacritical marks. Normally, the lowercase "t" is crossed with a horizontal line, and the lowercase "i" is dotted with a small dot or point. By crossing the t's and dotting the i's, one ensures that all the necessary details or steps have been taken care of.

The phrase is metaphorical and can be applied to various contexts, such as proofreading a document, following instructions, or managing a project. It serves as a reminder to be diligent, meticulous, and thorough in order to avoid mistakes or oversights.