Grammar

In fact, there’s no reason why you can’t start a sentence with a preposition. As with all aspects of writing, though, you should use it in moderation. However, it is an easy way of adding variety. By using it occasionally, it helps you vary the syntax of your sentences. With that in mind, let’s look…

When do you use a comma before which? Here are the quick answers. YES. You use a comma when the word which introduces a nonrestrictive phrase, which is also called a non-defining clause. NO. You don’t add a comma when which comes before a restrictive or defining clause. NO. There is no comma when which…

Learning how to change passive sentences to active voice is a skill all writers need. In most instances, all you need to do is move the subject before the verb. In a passive sentence, there is often the operator word, by before the object. But without one, it can be unclear who or what performs…

When do you use setup vs. set up? It’s an easy mistake to make when you are writing in a hurry. But there’s a simple way to remember how to use setup vs. set up correctly. All you need to do is know that one is a noun and adjective, and the other is a…

Yes, it’s considered by many the most popular writing tool. But can Grammarly replace an editor? How we write and check our writing is changing so fast because of all the online apps and tools we use. We might not think about artificial intelligence (AI), but it’s the brain behind many writing tools we use…

What’s the difference between grammar and syntax? Grammar is a set of rules governing correct word strings in a language or text. Syntax is the arrangement or order of words and phrases to create clear well-formed sentences. It can be a little confusing at first for new writers or students. But it’s easy once you…

Should you add a comma before and in a list of three or more items? Yes, because it eliminates confusion in a sentence. The comma before the word and in a list of three or more things is the Oxford comma. It’s also called the Serial comma. Writers use it to separate the last item…

Do you ever think about the spelling of the number 40 without a U, while other numbers like four and fourteen have one? It’s a strange exception to the rule, but the number has an interesting history. Spelling the number 40 is one of the little oddities of the English language. So what’s the story…

How do you make do and don’t plural? It’s always a dilemma. Many verbs can be used as nouns quite easily. But the verb do is a tough one. As a singular noun, it’s fine. But you need to use apostrophes to form the plural. Style guides and usage books don’t agree on the best…

There is one basic rule for dialogue punctuation. “Keep your punctuation inside the quotation marks!” There are a few more technical dialogue punctuation rules. But when you develop the habit of enclosing your punctuation, you will be right 95% of the time. How to punctuate dialogue Poor punctuation can confuse and irritate your readers. However,…