Wednesday, February 8, 2012

How to Write - English Grammar Software

The truth is: English writing is rather difficult. Even people who use English as their first language have a difficult time expressing coherent thoughts in the written form. Now imagine if you have to write a piece for a creative writing class, or transcribe medical notes, or create a legal document or plot down an informative article on business transactions. And if you think those are hurdles enough, just think how especially difficult English writing could be for people who are not at all well versed with the language. As most English-as-second-language (ESL) students and instructors know, grammar is one of the hardest things to master in this criterion.

Fortunately, there are now scores of English grammar software applications available. These applications were first created as a way of making proofreading easier. Initially, the applications' functions were limited to checking word spellings and providing simple word substitutions (suggested subject-verb agreement, synonyms and antonyms); which, according to many standards are now almost readily available in any operating system package. These days though, with the growing demand for English as the common tongue in medicine and business, software applications like these are now also providing in-depth grammar lessons and comprehensive dictionary functions as well. People from all over the world are now discovering the many benefits of English grammar software.

Aside of course from the sheer convenience of being able to study English in the comfort of your own home, at your leisure, and at the pace you are most comfortable with, other benefits to using the aforementioned software applications include: lessons in basic (or advanced) grammar, lessons in punctuation rules; contextual enrichment, and online support. Dictionary functions are almost part and parcel of all grammar software. These functions are great in regards to providing alternative words and checking (and replacing) the spelling of the text. These electronic dictionaries also provide a means for the writer to expand his or her vocabulary. As they say, a good writer is someone who has a great command of the language - and that begins by having an extensive knowledge of ready words to use.

Acquiring lessons in basic or advanced grammar depends on the actual software you buy. Using applications with Basic English grammar functions is always a great place to start learning the language. However, for people who already have certain mastery in English, advanced grammar lessons work best for creative writing, business writing, medical document writing or transcription, and legal document writing. Lessons in punctuation rules are also essential since many novice English writers find these confusing a lot of times. Even seasoned writers have occasional punctuation slips or two. Contextual enrichment works similar to synonym / antonym functions with a small difference. This function helps the writer explore other word or term options based on the entire context of the sentence; based on the etymology of the word; or based on established literary samples.

Lastly, online support is beneficial to people who want to clarify a few issues here and there. Although most of the information should be within the instructional materials of the software application, virtual assistance is always appreciated.

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