Grammar Slammer

Punctuation, usage, spelling … the Grammar Slammer is keeping an eye on the way we use (and misuse!) the written word.

Aha, so that’s what it’s called

January 25, 2017
Many writers reach into their literary device toolbox to spice up their sentences. Here are some of those common devices.

Correctly use Until, Till and ‘Til

December 1, 2016
If you have trouble distinguishing the differences between “until,” “till” and “ ’til,” these tips from Marko Ticak at Grammarly can help get you on the right track.

Handling hyphens

November 23, 2016
Take this quiz to check your hyphen skills.

Write in the parallel universe

October 26, 2016
Parallelism is an important principle of sentence construction, especially in lists and series and when ideas are presented in pairs.

Colons and semicolons

September 28, 2016
Colons and semicolons are two of the most neglected and least understood forms of punctuation in the English language.

Fix those common grammar errors

September 15, 2016
Four common grammar mistakes to avoid: If/would have … Hyphenating descriptors … Any one/anyone … Unnecessary prepositions

Guidelines for using parentheses

August 8, 2016
Parentheses are one form of punctuation that can cause some confusion. Some people have trouble determining when to use them, while others may apply them without really knowing if parentheses are the most appropriate punctuation.

Tighten up those sentences

July 19, 2016
It happens more in writing than in the spoken word: Sentences are way longer and more cumbersome than they need to be.

Common errors in writing

June 17, 2016
Correct the error in each sentence.

Finding the right word

May 16, 2016
Can you choose the correct word in each sentence?