Grammar & Mechanics

Some people equate writing – and especially writing instruction – almost exclusively with grammar and mechanics.  We couldn't disagree more:  sentence-level issues are a part of writing, to be sure, but they're only one part, and from our perspective they're not even the most difficult or important part.  Still, grammar matters, especially in terms of how much authority readers grant your work.  

Please see the first two discussions below for a serious reflection on just what grammar is, how people learn it, and how it's connected to larger sociological and rhetorical issues.  Consult the sections listed under "Common Error Patterns" for straightforward explanations of individual patterns of error and usage you may be confused about or have trouble with. We hope you find this helpful -- and that you'll let us know if there are other error patterns you'd like help with or topics you'd like us to address. 

Our apologies:  this section of the Resources for Writers site is still under construction.  The list of pages below should suggest what we hope to cover here, though some pages are still blank.  If you have thoughts about what else we should address, please let us know!