This page is dedicated to musings and complaints about how the English language is sometimes used, especially on the internet. I thought this first post should be about why I think it is important to spell correctly, use correct punctuation and correct grammar.
I think the easiest place for me to go to find examples of how bad spelling, grammar and punctuation is Facebook. Below are some actual examples (with any identity revealing points like names either changed or blotted out) from my Facebook stream. I have attempted to explain or correct what is wrong with the posts and why using proper spelling, grammar and punctuation would help the writer communicate with their audience.
Here are some reasons to use correct grammar, spelling and punctuation from the least important reason to the most important:
- It makes you look smart
- It is polite to your readers
- It makes you understood
- It means people will listen to you
What is the purpose of writing? For me, that purpose is communication. That is the number one reason why you should use correct grammar, spelling and punctuation. People will take you more seriously because you will look smart, people will find your writing easy to read, people will listen to you and understand you. In the end, isn't being listened to and understood all we really want?
Thank you for coming to The State of the English language. I hope you enjoyed your stay.