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Working on Grammar and Spelling

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     The Problem: One of the most widely shared pet peeves in readers is being stuck with a badly written fanfiction full of grammar mistakes and typos.  This is no laughing matter.  No matter how good your story may be plot-wise, if it is terribly written no one but other terrible writers will want to read it.  I would rather gouge my eyes out than try to read a badly written fic.  Annoying chat speak, or l33t speak as it is known by chat speak elitists, can also be a huge turn off to readers.  Seriously, if the character you are writing for does not himself say 'lols' or 'rofl' then he should not say it in your fic.  I know it can be a hassle but please take my advice or quietly fade from the fansites.  Both are better options than continuing to clog the fanfiction isles with garbage. (Wow, that sounded a bit harsh even to my ears.)

     The Solution: For grammar, my advise is to find some type of learning media (books, websites, etc.) or teacher to help you improve.  I don't mean a BETA reader though they have their own place in writing and you can read about that here.  Yes, you have to take time to learn but it is time well spent.  If you must, go and recruit the help of a 5th grade elementary school kid.  In the United States that is the most-drilled grade when it comes to the English language and grammar education.  For some helpful books on grammar just ask a school librarian, teacher and professors of the English language or use an internet search.  For helpful websites and recommendations from me, visit my Contacts and Links and References page.  I'll try to help out as much as I can by giving you more helpful sites and materials.

     For spelling you have fewer options.  Most computers come with programs already fitted with spell-check.  Microsoft Word is a common example.  It may not always catch misspellings (many times a writer simply goofs and mistypes a different word) but they're more accurate than most eyes.  Make sure to reference a dictionary or encyclopedia so you know you are using the right form of a word.  It is very easy to accidentally mix up some words, like their, there and they're. (Note: 'Their' is a plural possessive, 'there' is a place and 'they're' is the contracted form of the words 'they' and 'are.')

     Small mistakes here and there are common, even for the most experienced author but your story does not need to have every other word misspelled.  Your sentences don't need to have five commas in them, or none at all, most of the time.  A little worried about your skills?  Don't fret too much and take it slow.  Learning does not happen all in one day and practice is important.