Error (Pet Peeve) #4: Poor Grammar Usage
The fourth common error that results in poor writing is poor grammar usage. "Incorrect grammar and careless construction of sentences distract the reader, introduce ambiguity, and generally obstruct communication" (APA, 2009, pp. 77-84). Too often important messages are miscommunicated or never communicated because of poor grammar. This lesson will highlight some of the most common grammar errors (also known as this instructor's primary pet peeves). To improve your writing, you may also want to review material from Basic English grammar classes that you have taken.
In this lesson, we will consider: (a) verbs, (b) dangling modifiers, and (c) parallel construction. In the Publication Manual, please make sure that you read about pronouns (e.g., especially determine when to use which vs. that), linguistic devices (e.g. Avoid alliterations, poetic expressions, and clichés. Use metaphors sparingly), and subject-verb agreement (A verb needs to agree in number with the subject: plural noun + plural verb and singular noun + singular verb) not covered in this lesson. Hint: These are also pet peeves of your instructors.
Resources:
Check out the resources at Purdue's Online Writing Lab's (OWL) on Subject-Verb Agreement and Pronouns to further assist you in your writing. The Subject- Verb Agreement is helpful. It can be accessed through the following link: http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/esl/eslsubverb.html.
Regent University Writing Center has a good handout on the use of which vs. that. You can download it from here
