5 replies to this topic

[Tatsu011]

When writing papers, RP Responses, Stories, and the like; Consider a few things when writing your response or topic.

For Writers:

When writing your stories/posts and the like, do the following before hitting "Submit:"

• Reread the post aloud like you are reading it to a friend.
  
• Enunciate every word clearly and focus on what words are what.

Asking for help after your story post is not a bad idea. There are cases where you miss a comma or a period.

For you Grammar Nazi correctors:

When responding to a post, Make sure you tell them whats wrong in their story.

BAD

Quote

Your story is full of errors, reread it and correct it.

It doesn't explain whats wrong, or why its wrong; Its not constructive criticism.


GOOD

Quote

[Sentence] is a run on, [Sentence] feels like its missing something, and [Paragraph] is confusing. I liked [Sentence].

This tells the author whats wrong and why its wrong. Don't be afraid to include large sections of posts in your responses.

If you want to add a tip, Feel free to respond.

Moderators: could you pin this topic?

[Chaotic Bard]

Tatsu011, on 11 June 2011 - 04:30 AM, said:

Moderators: could you pin this topic?

Totally.

[Moomaria]

what about correcting spelling? cause it's grammar.

[Saiyu]

its kinda true so look at my grammer and reflect. if it looks like mine ur doing it wrong

but ya true facts

[Azuciel]

Use spell/grammar check software.

At least when you're using a computer for your work.


Get a proofreader.

A friend who knows good English would suffice.


NEVER be afraid to use a dictionary or a grammar book.

---

For criticism, always give positive feedback first.
I, for one, will skip reading a comment if I see something negative on their very first sentence.

[LuffyOniiSan]

I would say the best remedy for bad grammar is to read more. Seriously, just read more. You can even reread the same book countless times, and the grammar will sink in eventually. Memorizing grammar laws is the way to start learning a language. It isn't, if you want to get seriously good at it. Of course, you can study it to the extent that you can pluck out a relevant grammar law in an argument with a grammar nazi, but that's not the point. You want yourself to write good English, and have fun in the process, which is without being concerned about your grammar. If you read a lot, grammar will come naturally in time. Anything that sounds good in your opinion is generally correct grammar, with a few exceptions. You can't be all-encompassing.

The next thing to do is to practice writing in proper English, with proper punctuation marks, etc., when you reply to topics in forums or chat with friends in text messages/social networking sites, chat sites. If that is too much, at least practice writing proper English when you are replying to or discussing about serious topics.

tl;dr:
1. Read more.
2. Write properly more.