Grammar Post

Throughout the entire semester we have learned how to write effectively, we have learned many ways of accomplishing this from our instructor but I thought it would be interesting to look into it a little further and see what some things others advise to become a more effective writer. At grammarbook.com I found a few really good tips;
Rule 1. Use concrete rather than vague language.
Examples: Vague: The weather was of an extreme nature on the west coast.
Concrete: California had very cold weather last week.


Rule 2. Use active voice whenever possible. Active voice means the subject is performing the verb.
Examples: Active: Barry hit the ball.
Passive: The ball was hit.
Notice that the responsible party may not even appear when using passive voice.


Rule 3. Avoid overusing there is, there are, it is, it was, and so on.
Example: There is a case of meningitis that was reported in the newspaper.
Correction: A case of meningitis was reported in the newspaper.
Even Better: The newspaper reported a case of meningitis. (Active voice)
Example: It is important to signal before making a left turn.
Correction: Signaling before making a left turn is important.
OR
Signaling before a left turn is important.

OR

You should signal before making a left turn. (Active voice)

Example: There are some revisions which must be made.
Correction: Some revisions must be made.
Even Better: Please make some revisions. (Active voice)

These are just a few of the great rules that I found on how to write effectively for more tips click the following link.