Several customers have been asking me for help...

...proof-reading their papers. I’m not always sure about grammar and want to refer them to some really good sources. What would be good to recommend to them?

There are a number of good sources for English grammar and style. Remember that it is always wise to have someone else proofread your writing, as you might only see what you meant and not what you have actually written. There are some good Web sites to consult, and there are books with clear examples as well.

Where do I put that comma? A good place to start is Rutgers University’s Guide to Grammar and Style. Arranged in an accessible, alphabetical way, it is easy to use and clearly written. With its emphasis on style and clearly written English, Strunk and White’s Elements of Style is probably the best known guide to English usage. It is also available in updated paper editions at most libraries.

Are you taking a brake or a break? When it comes to which word to use and which phrase is correct, a great site is Washington State University’s Common Errors in English. Arranged alphabetically, each word or phrase has a link to an explanation.


The Little, Brown Handbook, now in its 10th edition, is an excellent paper source for grammar, style, and manuscript writing.