Writing and Literacy

Common Errors and Grammar Tips
Common Spelling Errors

Grammar Tips

• Spelling: Always use the Spell Check function in Microsoft products and in Macromedia Dreamweaver. It is very important for credibility that your writing and web sites use correct spelling.
• Noun-verb agreement: Make sure that if you use a plural noun (e.g., "people"), you use a plural verb (e.g., "are"). Similarly, make sure that if you use a singular noun (e.g., "an individual"), you use a singular verb (e.g., "is").
• Noun-pronoun agreement: Make sure that if you use a plural noun (e.g., "people"), you use a plural pronoun (e.g., "they"). Similarly, make sure that if you use a singular noun (e.g., "a person"), you use a singular pronoun (e.g., "he or she").
• Gender-neutral language: Be sure to avoid pronouns that imply you are only referring to males or only referring to females (unless, of course, you are only referring to males or to females).
• e.g. vs. i.e.: The letters "e.g." mean "for example." The letters "i.e." mean "in other words." Consequently, if you are listing everything, you should use i.e. (e.g., "I went to the store and bought three items (i.e., milk, eggs, and cheese)"). If you are listing examples, you should use e.g., (e.g., "I went to the store and bought several items (e.g., milk, eggs, cheese)"). Note: since e.g., implies that there are other items, there is no need to end your list with "etc." (and you should not end your list with "etc.").
• Spelling: While spell-check ensures that you spell words properly, it does not check that you've used the correct words. Be sure to proof read to ensure that you have used the proper word (e.g., "weather" vs. "whether"; "there" vs. "their")
• Complete sentences: Each sentence in your paper should be complete. That is, it should have a noun and a verb, expressing a complete idea. Reading your paper aloud, and paying attention to Word's squiggly green lines, will help ensure that you have no fragments or run-ones. When you see the green and red lines in Word, please be sure to double-check to ensure that your writing is correct. Very often, it is not.
• Transitions: The links between paragraphs may make perfect sense to you, but they may be less clear to a reader. Never underestimate the value of transitions such as "However," "On the other hand," "Additionally"
• Specific Grammar issues:
  • Avoid run-on sentences
  • Avoid sentence fragments
  • Avoid passive voice
  • Be sure subjects and verbs agree
  • Use commas appropriately
  • Use apostrophes appropriately
  • Avoid misplaced modifiers
  • Avoid using adjectives as adverbs

Link on each of the specific grammar issues to learn more about them and how to avoid them.

Check out this list of non-errors.

Check out this really huge site of common errors in English.

Grammar Tips