English majors, writers and journalists are not the only people who need to know basic grammar rules. Everyone should have an understanding of how to avoid the most common grammar mistakes. These mistakes can negatively affect how others see a person and can limit that person’s opportunities. Learn these simple ways to remember rules.
Their, There, They’re
These words are the source of perhaps the most frequently made mistakes in everyday writing. People use them in everything from e-mails to office memos to Facebook updates, so it is important to know how to correctly use them.
Their – This form is possessive. It should be used to say something belongs to someone. Examples: Their daughter has blonde hair. Did you see their coach do an interview after the game?
It is incorrect to write: Their going to be out of town this weekend. Instead: They’re going to be out of town this weekend.
They’re – This is a contraction of the phrase they are. It should be used only when the words they are can be substituted. Examples: They’re playing against Tennessee this weekend. Do you know what car they’re driving?
It is incorrect to write: Is that seat over they’re taken? Instead: Is that seat over there taken?
There – This word indicates a place. It can be used to indicate a physical place or abstract place. Examples: The cat is over there by the couch. There is a coffee shop on the corner. There are many ways to make spaghetti.
It is incorrect to write: There not a very good team. Instead: They’re not a very good team.
Your, You’re
Your – This form is possessive. It should be used when indicating something belongs to someone. Examples: Your son played well in his baseball game. Thank you for inviting me to your party.
It is incorrect to write: Your invited to a wedding. Instead: You’re invited to a wedding.
You’re – This is a contraction of the phrase you are. It should be used only when the words you are can be substituted. Examples: You’re a great cook. I think you’re going to win the contest.
It is incorrect to write: You’re phone rang. Instead: Your phone rang.
Its, It’s
Its – This is possessive. It should be used to indicate a possession of it. Examples: Turn the table on its side. I read the book, and its themes were obvious.
It is incorrect to write: Its raining today. Instead: It’s raining today.
It’s – This is a contraction of the phrase it is. It should be used only when the words it is can be substituted. Examples: It’s a nice day for a drive. I think it’s a good book.
It is incorrect to write: It’s windows are dirty. Instead: Its windows are dirty.
Basic Comma Rules to Remember
The most common rules for comma placement are as follows:
- Between independent clauses. Example: I went to visit her, but she was not home.
- Between items in a list. Example: I bought a toaster, a mixing bowl, a blender and a wooden spoon. (Note: New comma rules do not require a comma between the last two items if they are separated by “and.”)
- After introductory phrases. Example: If she expects to pass the test, she needs to study every day this week.
- To set off nonrestrictive clauses, or clauses not essential to the sentence. Example: The teacher, who wore red shoes, gave a speech to the school.
Other Commonly Misused Words
Fewer – This word indicates number. It answers the “how many?” question and describes things which can be counted. Example: Fewer people live in Alabama than in New York. (Because people can be counted.)
Less – This words indicates an amount. It answers the “how much?” question and describes what can be measured. Examples: I have less milk in my glass than you do. (Because milk can be measured.)
Exceptions: Money can be counted, but money collectively answers the question “How much?” so it is indicated by less. If referring to individual dollars, the correct word to use is fewer.
Writing clean of these basic grammar mistakes is better writing. Everyone should know these rules for everyday life.
Take it one step further and improve vocabulary.
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