Grammar Slammer

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

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?

Extrovert or extravert?

April 18, 2016
Are you an introvert? Or are you an extrovert? Or is it extravert?

Matching subjects and verbs

March 1, 2016
Do you know how to properly construct a setence? Might not be as easy as it sounds.

The British spelling invasion

February 1, 2016
Whether you ventured to Times Square on New Year’s Eve, or stayed home to watch the rockin’ 2016 event on your big screen, you may have noticed the sea of top hats with the slogan “Judgement Free New Year’s Eve.”

Capitalize those brand names

December 31, 2015
Here is a list of products you should capitalize in your writing because they are actually brand names.

Song titles gone bad

December 1, 2015
We just can’t let them off the Eng­­lish language hook. You know, those poets and song lyricists who either just don’t get it or don’t really care. Or perhaps proper grammar destroys the beat and coolness of the titles. Anyway, here are some of your favorite songs that sport some cringe-worthy grammatical errors in their titles.

4 rules for better writing

November 1, 2015

Much of our workday is spent in communication with others. Make sure your writing doesn’t distract readers and cancel out your efforts to communicate clearly. Here are four rules to help improve your writing: