Leah K. Tips on How to Write Correctly

I can admit it, we all can admit it. When any type of writing assignment is due, the first thing we all do is run to our computers and start hammering away (granted all of our necessary research is finished). I'll even admit right now I am typing directly into the blog post box with out even thinking twice about grammar. While normally this is acceptable, it is not always professional. Here are the important points to tune into for the next time you start tapping the keys at record speed.

1. Don't trust the spell checker
I always do, and it usually comes and bites me in the behind. A spell checker just can not catch everything. Computers are getting smarter and smarter, but nothing can beat the power of a friend proof-reading allowed...I mean aloud. Good thing I re-read this and caught that! Phew!

2.Learn how to use their, there and they're correctly
It seems silly, but many of times this is a huge pet peeve of teachers. I would assume in the workplace it is not difference. Using the wrong their, they're, or there makes anyone seem...well...ignorant. Quick lesson: their is used in possesion, there is a location, they're is used for they are. That's all that needs to be said.

3. Follow Capitalization Rules
We have all been there... typing away and suddenly forgetting punctuation rules. Do I capitalize principal? Proper nouns, a person's title when preceeding a name or following it, and direct addresses are all capitalized. An example of a direct address would be, "How are you, Doctor."
Quiz time on Capitalization!
Which is correct capitalization?
A.The governors, lieutenant governors, and attorneys general called for a special task force.
B.Golden gate bridge
C.Ms. Haines, chairperson
D.Will you take my temperature, doctor?

The correct answer is A, capitalize the titles of high-ranking government officials when used with or before their names. Do not capitalize the civil title if it is used instead of the name.

4.Remember the commonly confused words
affect vs. effect
Use effect when you mean bring about or brought about, cause or caused.
Example: He effected a commotion in the crowd.
Affect is used as a noun to mean emotional expression.
Example: She showed little affect when told she had won the lottery.
You can find an entire list of words on the website http://www.grammarbook.com/homonyms/confusing-words-1.asp.

5. Write Effectively
I thought this writing stuff was so simple, turns out there are so many mechanics to it. Effective writing pertains to writing more concrete sentences versus vague ones, keeping the tenses all the same. So many times have I switched up my tenses and not realized it till my teacher pointed it out.

With these tips, everyone should be just fine tapping away.




http://www.grammarbook.com/