Conclusion
All of this may seem quite technical. Perhaps it even seems inane, especially when we compare the topic to writing the actual content.
But many people find improper grammar and punctuation distracting. They may leave the page if it becomes too distracting or confusing.
If you find yourself confused, know that you are not alone. I usually recommend writers I coach to use a writing tool as a side assistant. Free versions of Grammarly and similar platforms help greatly and cost nothing but a few extra minutes.
NOTE: None of these tools are perfect. But they do make good reference tools.
Join the Discussion
AndyN1
Premium
Hi Diane
I use Grammarly and I find it very helpful. As you say you have to check and not always accept the proposed change. One that I find it often gets wrong - for my eyes anyway - it always wants to turn "may" and "be" into "maybe". Obvious examples would be
Maybe we will come tomorrow - I think that is correct.
but
We may be coming tomorrow. - I think is also correct.
I find it also has trouble when you try to use subjunctive forms. Or maybe I shouldn't be using the subjunctive case at all.
Like you, I find really bad grammar and punctuation to be distracting after a while. Reading aloud is also a good way to catch sloppy writing.
A great lesson!
Thanks
Andy
I use Grammarly and I find it very helpful. As you say you have to check and not always accept the proposed change. One that I find it often gets wrong - for my eyes anyway - it always wants to turn "may" and "be" into "maybe". Obvious examples would be
Maybe we will come tomorrow - I think that is correct.
but
We may be coming tomorrow. - I think is also correct.
I find it also has trouble when you try to use subjunctive forms. Or maybe I shouldn't be using the subjunctive case at all.
Like you, I find really bad grammar and punctuation to be distracting after a while. Reading aloud is also a good way to catch sloppy writing.
A great lesson!
Thanks
Andy
Reply
Dhind1
Premium Plus
This is excellent, thank you for taking the time to put this together.
I really appreciate anything that will help to improve my grammar skills. I am a native speaker and I know that any help is good for me.
I have spent almost 30 years overseas where I have listened to shortened versions of English as my friends and co-workers struggle to "talk" to me.
I appreciate their efforts as I am sure they appreciate my efforts to communicate in their language. But, over time basic skills become eroded, so a refresher is always welcome.
Alex
I really appreciate anything that will help to improve my grammar skills. I am a native speaker and I know that any help is good for me.
I have spent almost 30 years overseas where I have listened to shortened versions of English as my friends and co-workers struggle to "talk" to me.
I appreciate their efforts as I am sure they appreciate my efforts to communicate in their language. But, over time basic skills become eroded, so a refresher is always welcome.
Alex
Dhind1
Premium Plus
That is it, Diane, I find when speaking Thai that I tend to be very literal, short, and hopefully, to the point.
Nuances of the Thai language get left out as I, either do not understand them, or I cannot get the right tonal inflection.
Also, Thai has some reversal of grammar in the way they say things.
They would say copy one, as opposed to one copy.
My friend you as opposed to your friend.
It can be confusing and as I say, any help to maintain what semblance of skill, with English that I have is appreciated.
Alex
Nuances of the Thai language get left out as I, either do not understand them, or I cannot get the right tonal inflection.
Also, Thai has some reversal of grammar in the way they say things.
They would say copy one, as opposed to one copy.
My friend you as opposed to your friend.
It can be confusing and as I say, any help to maintain what semblance of skill, with English that I have is appreciated.
Alex
