Here it is: If you wrestle with grammar and punctuation, there is one painless way to improve your skills. It does not involve memorizing grammar rules, diagramming sentences, or having other people critique your writing. In fact, it’s enjoyable. It’s reading. When you were a baby you learned words one at a time. Then you began to string two words together to make simple sentences like “Eat cookie!”. Finally, you added words to make more complex sentences. No one gave you instructions in grammar. Your parents didn’t say, “Can you say mama? Mama is a noun. For a complete sentence, you must also have a predicate.” Despite this lack of grammar instruction, you acquired innate grammar. That is, you learned to speak grammatically because those around you spoke grammatically. While grammar varies from culture to culture, it is true of all human beings that we repeat the sentence structures that we hear. Reading is the same way. You learn to write grammatically because you read things that are written grammatically. It’s that simple. The more you read, the more grammar you internalize. People who read are always better writers than those who don’t, not because they study the grammar in their books but just because they read. For pleasure. It helps to have good examples, so it’s best to avoid dashed-off internet articles or news stories, and skimming quickly through your phone or surfing the web doesn’t count as actual reading. Beyond that, though, there’s a whole world of words. Sure, it can be hard to find time to read (especially if you have a lot of homework), but books are portable and reading helps you recharge. It’s a form of self-care you just don’t get from screen time. According to one article, reading improves brain function, concentration, reasoning, and emotional intelligence (Bergland, 2014). If you like mystery, horror, romance, music, gaming, horses, rocks, running, caving, cooking, or any other subject under the sun, there’s something written to engage your interest and—without even trying—improve your grammar. Need a recommendation? Come on into the Writing Center. We love to talk books! Catherine References Bergland, C. (2014). Reading fiction improves brain connectivity and function. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-athletes-way/201401/reading-fiction-improves-brain-connectivity-and-function
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Catherine |
Catherine AgarKeuka College Writing Center Director ArchivesCategories |