tailieunhanh - How to write great essays part 6

Chapter two is about saying exactly what you mean by avoiding ambiguous language, using modifiers, eliminating unnecessary words and phrases, and using the active voice whenever possible. | CHAPTER 4 Mechanics The majority of grammar punctuation and capitalization mistakes are just a few dozen common ones. If you learn these common errors and how to avoid or correct them your writing will greatly improve. Therefore the focus of this chapter is on those errors that occur most frequently. No matter how original an idea you come up with the inability to express yourself clearly and accurately through the written word will hinder the success of your essay. The rules of mechanics are complex in fact they sometimes confuse even professional writers. However you do not need to become a strict grammarian in order to write well. Parts of Speech Some parts of speech are more difficult than others. Following are the four most challenging ones as they pertain to your essay pronouns adjectives adverbs and prepositions with usage explanations and examples. If you feel your writing would benefit from a more in-depth review of grammar check the resources at the end of this book for websites and books that contain grammar lessons practice exercises and quizzes to reinforce the material. Mechanics CHAPTER 4 HOW TO WRITE GREAT ESSAYS 39 40 HOW TO WRITE GREAT ESSAYS CHAPTER 4 Mechanics PRONOUNS Pronouns refer back to or take the place of nouns. They should 1. Agree in number A singular pronoun must be used for a singular noun. Incorrect If the student passes this course they will graduate. Correct If the student passes this course she will graduate. 2. Agree in person Do not switch back and forth in your writing from the first person I to the second you or third he she they it . First person pronouns I me we us Second you Third he she him her they them Incorrect When a person comes to class you should have your homework ready. Correct When a person comes to class he should have his homework ready. 3. Be a specific reference to a noun It should be obvious to your reader to which noun the pronoun refers. Incorrect Kim spends all his time reading and playing soccer but it .