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Advanced University English Grammar

Before making the transition from high school to college, it's important to make sure your writing skills are up to the level your professors will expect. Even if your high school English teacher was willing to overlook minor grammatical mistakes in an essay or research paper, it's unlikely your new instructors will be this understanding. Fortunately, there are many Web sites available to help you develop a better grasp of advanced university English grammar.

Online Resources for Studying Advanced University English Grammar

If you're looking for grammar tutorials and tips to improve your writing skills, check out the following online resources:

  • The Nuts and Bolts of College Writing: This site will prove to be a valuable resource for any college student unsure of the proper procedure for preparing well-written research papers. Offering simple explanations of MLA, APA, CBE, and Chicago Style as well as a guide to the general principles of good writing, this site will give you the confidence you need to ace all of your university courses.
  • Guide to Grammar and Writing: This neatly organized site provides short lessons covering grammatical errors, the fundamentals of good writing, and the correct structure of a college essay or research paper. If you are looking for a fast and efficient way to enhance your knowledge of the English language, this site is the study guide you need.
  • The Online Grammar Guide: Prepared by Jack Lynch, associate Professor at Rutgers University, this helpful guide to advanced English grammar covers a variety of common writing errors. Visit this site if you don't understand the difference between "farther" and "further" or if you want to learn more about sexist language and the indefinite third person.
  • Modern English Grammar: This online hypertext book, written by Daniel Kies from the College of DuPage, is a great guide to understanding how a mastery of English grammar can enhance your writing skills. Topics covered include syntax, linguistic stylistics, coherence in writing, and common usage errors.
  • HyperGrammar Electronic Grammar Course: Prepared by the English department at the University of Ottawa, this e-course provides a flexible way to take your grammar skills to the next level. Unlike other e-courses, this course delivers lessons that are designed to be completed in the order that best fits your needs. If you have a question about proper punctuation, you won't be forced to complete lessons on the different parts of speech in order to find the material you need.
  • A Handbook of Rhetorical Devices: Although this site doesn't cover punctuation and basic usage errors, it offers a highly informative look at specific techniques you can use to improve the clarity and effectiveness of your writing.
  • Grammar Bytes: If you're looking for grammar lessons with a fun and lighthearted approach, turn to this site for interactive lessons and tutorials covering grammar topics such as comma splices and fused sentences, word choices, irregular verbs, and pronoun agreement.

If you come across an unfamiliar term when using an online grammar resource, check out the glossary at AskOxford's Jargon Buster. This easy-to-use specialty dictionary has definitions for a number of grammar-related terms, including conjunction, postpositive, ablative, and declension.

Additional Writing Assistance

If you're looking for a reference book to use when you're not near a computer with Internet access, consider investing in one of the following titles:

Although online resources and reference books for studying advanced university English grammar can be quite helpful, there may be times when you feel personal one-on-one assistance is necessary. In most cases, you can receive free writing critiques from your school's academic advising center. As an alternative, you may be able to hire an English major or a responsible graduate student to provide affordable editing services.

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