Writing Tip #28: Learn the Grammar Basics
The relationship between writing and grammar is something of a mystery. Good writers know grammar – at least instinctively. But studies keep showing little correlation between the isolated study of grammar and improved writing. Still, in order to understand common errors and basic issues of style, it’s necessary for all writers to have a grasp of basic grammar terminology. You must learn the vocabulary in order to understand how grammar and syntax work in effective writing. At the very least, learn the grammar basics: the parts of speech (there are only eight of them), sentence parts (subject, predicate, complement), word groups (phrases and clauses), and verb conjugation. Then, armed with new awareness of your tools, go to work on writing.