How to Do a Grammar Check

Checking your writing for errors in grammar is crucial to the creative process, as it directly affects the overall quality of your work. A well-constructed piece of writing will ensure clarity, which is essential to the reader's comprehension.

Instructions

How to Do a Grammar Check

1. Read your document several times for different purposes. The first read should be to ensure smoothness of language for understanding. You should read the document again after correcting grammar and spelling errors to be sure you have eradicated them all and the words are in the proper context.

2. Develop a systematic way of checking your writing. For example, check subject/verb and pronoun/antecedent agreement, phrasing in clauses and then punctuation--especially commas, semicolons, colons and apostrophes.

3. Use online grammar checkers, but don't rely solely on them. Your word-processing program will have a spelling/grammar-check feature. This is an excellent aid, but it can miss mistakes such as comma splices and incomplete sentences. Only you can perform the final editing.

4. If possible, step away from your writing for awhile before you read it for the last time. This will enable you to spot any new errors before you turn in your assignment.

References

• How to Edit and Proofread Your Writing
• About Word Processing Grammar Checks

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Tips for Good Writing