Words to watch out for ...

1. There vs. Their vs. They're

I think this one catches most of us at some time. Here is a sentence using all three of the words correctly:

"There are many generous people here at WA sharing their knowledge and they're much appreciated."

2. Your vs. You're

"Your" is a possessive pronoun - "You're" is short for "you are."

Example:You're going to be very successful if you stick to your 8 week plan.

3. Its vs. It's

"Its" is a possessive pronoun -"It's" is short for "it is" or "it has"

Example:It's going to be a great day when Clickbank pays out its commissions.

4. Two vs. Too vs. To

Two dollars was too much to pay for that crappy e-book.

5. Than vs. Then

Than is only used for comparisons- Then is used as a time expression.

Example: I know most people are better at Adwords than me so I'm studying for a while then heading over to the forum. We can chat then. You've been around here longer than me.

6. ect instead of etc.

"Etc" is an abbreviation for the Latin phrase et cetera, which translates to "and the rest."

(As a reminder of the correct spelling Et means "and" in French too.)

7. Good or Well?

"Well" is an adverb - "Good" is an adjective.(In most cases.)

If you study well you will be in good shape.

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I hope my "back to school" session has been useful.

Do you have any grammatical pet-hates to add? Please leave a comment.

- NoSdge



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Humbie Premium
I've noticed those same errors all over..over and over.....glad to see someone addressing this :) Great job!!
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Buppi Premium
I've noticed those same errors all over..over and over.....glad to see someone addressing this :) Great job!!
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J.K. Premium
If I read another grammar article I may 'loose' my mind.
Seriously tho, great job, thanks.
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A Warriors Will Premium
If I read another grammar article I may 'loose' my mind.
Seriously tho, great job, thanks.
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LJFWolffe Premium
Thank you, Nodge! You gave good examples that help people remember which is which -- and the subject is so timely! I've been inches from writing a forum post titled "Apostrophe Catastrophe," to emphasize that other than the word 'its' _The Possessive Gets The Apostrophe, and The Plural Does NOT!_ I've even caught K & C on that one -- and them edukated granulates and all. 8-)
Good Job! Gold for You!
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