Please hand in the project by 1st August, at the latest.

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Tan Elaine

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Please hand in the project by 1st August, at the latest.

Is the part in bold fine?

Thanks.
 
Yes.

It would also be fine without the comma.
 
Thanks, Rover.

Please hand in the project by 1st August, at the latest.
Please hand in the project on 1st August, at the latest.

Can I replace 'by' with 'on'?

Thanks.
 
Thanks, Rover.

Please hand in the project by 1st August, at the latest.
Please hand in the project on 1st August, at the latest.

Can I replace 'by' with 'on'?

Thanks.

Not if you still say "at the latest." If you want them on that date then you want them on that date. Not before.
 
Thanks, SoothingDave.

Please hand in the project by 1st August, at the latest.

Please hand in the project by 1st August.

Would there be significant difference if 'at the latest' were left out, as it is understand that "by !st August" means no later than 1st August.
 
No, "at the latest" is superfluous.
 
Thanks, SoothingDave.

That was what I thought, but it is commonly used where I live. Is it commonly used by native speakers?
 
Sure. It can emphasize that it is a firm deadline.
 
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