For a writer, writing is a passion that leads them down various paths that of a writer, blogger, author, or journalist. On each of the paths, they may encounter stumbling blocks. A standard stumbling block faced by a writer is grammar. No matter how creative or passionate the writer is, grammar mistakes can take the fun out of reading. We have put together ten common grammar mistakes encountered in write-ups. Avoid these common grammar mistakes to make the writing readable and give it a professional feel. Using examples, we’ll also delve into some common questions writers have while editing the manuscript.
1. Subject-Verb Agreement Errors
How can I identify and correct subject-verb agreement errors in my manuscript?
Subject-verb agreement errors occur when the subject and verb in a sentence do not match in number.
- For example, “He go to the market” it should be “He goes to the market.”
- “She run to the store every morning.” it should be “She runs to the store every morning.“
To identify and correct these errors:
- Check the subject: The grammar rule is that the subject should agree with the verb and should be either singular or plural.
- Match the verb: verb form should agree with the subject.
- Read aloud: reading the sentence aloud often helps to identify mistakes.
2. Punctuation Mistakes
What are the most common punctuation mistakes, and how can I avoid them?
Punctuation errors can lead to hilarious sentences, and the chances of misunderstanding the meaning of the sentence increase manyfold.
- For example: “Slow children crossing,”
- “Let’s eat Grandma!”
Common mistakes include:
- Comma splices: Joining two independent clauses with a comma. Correct this by using a conjunction or a semicolon. Incorrect: It was raining, I stayed indoors. Correct: It was raining, so I stayed indoors
- Misplaced apostrophes: For example, using “it’s” (it is) instead of “its” (possessive).
- Incorrect: The cat cleaned it’s fur.
- Correct: The cat cleaned its fur.
- Inconsistent quotation marks: Stick to single or double quotation marks consistently.
- Incorrect: He said, “I’ll be there soon’.
- Correct: He said, “I’ll be there soon.”
To avoid these mistakes:
- Study punctuation rules: Familiarize yourself with the basics.
- Proofread carefully: Keep an eye open for punctuation errors while editing and proofreading the writing.
3. Homophone Confusion
How do I avoid mixing up homophones in my writing?
Homophones are words that sound the same but have different meanings and spellings. Common examples include “their,” “there,” and “they’re.”
Incorrect: They left there bags on the platform. Correct: They left their bags on the platform.
To avoid confusion:
- Learn the differences: This can be achieved by understanding the meanings and uses of homophones, starting with common ones.
- Use context clues: Rereading sentences helps to detect context clues so that the correct homophone can be used.
4. Verb Tense Consistency
What are some common verb tense mistakes, and how can I maintain consistency throughout my manuscript?
A writer may change the tense midway in a sentence. For example, “She was walking to the store when she sees a cat” should be “She was walking to the store when she saw a cat.
- Incorrect: “She was cooking dinner when the phone rings.” Should be: “She was cooking dinner when the phone rang.“
To maintain consistency:
- Choose a primary tense: before you start writing, decide on a tense you would like to use: present, past or future.
- Stick to it: Avoid changing the sentence mid-sentence or mid-paragraph unless necessary.
- Edit with purpose: While reviewing the write-up, check whether the tense is consistent
5. Misplaced Modifiers
Misplaced modifiers can change the meaning of what a writer is trying to say. Modifiers are words or phrases that describe another word in the sentence. For example, “She almost drove her kids to school every day” implies she didn’t drive them at all. Correctly, it should be “She drove her kids to school almost every day.”
6. Pronoun-Antecedent Agreement
Ensure pronouns agree with their antecedents in number and gender. For example, “Everyone must bring their book” should be “Everyone must bring his or her book.”
7. Incorrect Use of Articles
Using the wrong article (“a,” “an,” “the”) can confuse readers. For example, “He gave her a advice” should be “He gave her advice” (uncountable noun) or “He gave her an idea” (countable noun starting with a vowel sound).
8. Overuse of Passive Voice
Passive voice can make sentences wordy and unclear. Instead of “The cake was baked by her,” use “She baked the cake” to create a stronger, more direct sentence.
9. Dangling Participles
A dangling participle occurs when the participle phrase does not logically refer to the noun. For example, “Walking to the market, the apples looked fresh” should be “Walking to the market, she noticed the apples looked fresh.”
10. Redundant Expressions
Avoid redundant expressions like “advance warning” (warning already implies advance) or “free gift” (a gift is always free). Simplify your sentences for clarity.
By paying attention to common grammar mistakes, a writer can improve the readability of the writing and the manuscript and its meaning to a reader. Attention to grammar rules on subject-verb agreement, punctuation, homophones, verb tense, and other common errors will lead to highly readable and professional writing. Remember, thorough proofreading and editing of the manuscript are crucial steps in manuscript preparation. Happy writing!
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