In today’s fast pace world, it is increasingly evident that people are writing at top speed to publish or promote their businesses. In the rush however, many of the old grammar and style issues are showing up all over the place.

It is important to learn the basic structure of sentences and how to use them correctly. It is also important to know the basics of style. Why, you might be thinking? I know it sounds boring, however, it truly is very important.

In order for you to convey your story or ideas to readers, you need to understand the basics of language to pick the best ways to say things. Now, we all know that many of these grammar rules are broken here and there, and they should be at times. Until you know the basics, you can’t use the rules to help you reach your readers, and you can’t break the rules when needed.

If you are writing anything for publication, take a few minutes and add one or more of these top rated resources to your shelves. Use them regularly and your acceptance rate for your articles or books will increase. Plus, you will spend less time editing as you will begin to know them as you write.

This is a list of my top four grammar and style resources, not an exhaustive list of everything that is out there. You can use any of these for most types of writing.

The Elements of Style, Fourth Edition
This classic is a must have. It has helped hundreds of thousands of writers through the years. Their advice and way of teaching is just as timely today as it was when it was first published.

Grammar Girl's Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing (Quick & Dirty Tips)
The Grammar Girl’s books are very easy to understand and use. This one will help you through most of the grammar and style questions you have.

It Was the Best of Sentences, It Was the Worst of Sentences: A Writer's Guide to Crafting Killer Sentences
This handy little book clears up a lot of sentence issues in a fun style and easy reading.

Mechanically Inclined: Building Grammar, Usage, and Style into Writer's Workshop
This book merges the best of writer’s workshop elements with relevant theory about how and why skills should be taught.

These essential guides should get you started on the right track and keep you there.

Happy Writing!




Follow @ThriveandGrowMe