Grammar Rules When It Comes To Writing
Grammar is important because it provides information that helps the reader's comprehension. It is the structure that conveys precise meaning from the writer to the audience. Eliminate grammatical errors from your writing, and reward your readers with clear communication.
1. Be careful with commas
Commas are one of the most commonly misused punctuation marks. Use too many or too few-and they can distract readers or make your writing confusing. When in doubt, look up comma rules for your specific situation, and try to be consistent with how you use them.
2. Make sure your verb tenses are consistent
Be sure to look over your work to confirm that your verb tenses make sense throughout. Note how the tenses change incorrectly in the sentences below:
- He filed the paperwork and then he sends copies to HR.
- The developer has went on a vacation.
- Lunch time will start at noon and had gone until one thirty.
3. Watch out for homophones
Automatic spellcheckers often overlook homophone errors, meaning your writing might still contain these embarrassing mistakes:
- They're, there, their
- You're, your
- It's, its
- Complement, compliment
- Affect, effect
- Too, two, to
4. Don't capitalize excessively
Capitalizing for emphasis is a common business writing mistake. However, you should only capitalize proper nouns, including names, titles, places, months, and days of the week.
5. Be careful with pronouns
Using too many pronouns in your writing can confuse your readers and make it hard for them to understand who's acting or speaking. Use names or nouns at the start of every paragraph, using pronouns only to refer back to them within those paragraphs.
