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Explanation of Computer-Based Grammar Checkers - Strategies to Succeed in Writing. Also refer to Microsoft Word, Whitesmoke Writing Software, Serenity Editor, phrases, passive tense, context, thesaurus, Ron Kurtus, School for Champions. Copyright © Restrictions

Computer-Based Grammar Checkers

by Ron Kurtus (17 April 2007)

Good grammar is essential in writing. However, it is easy to miss a grammatical error, even if you are a skilled writer. Having someone proofread your work is not always possible, and since most people usually write on a word processor, it would be nice to have a computer-based grammar checker. The most common one used is the grammar checker that is included with Microsoft Word. Two other grammar checkers are Whitesmoke Writing Software and Serenity Software Editor.

Questions you may have include:

  • How good is Microsoft Word grammar checker?
  • What about Whitesmoke?
  • How good is the Editor grammar checker?

This lesson will answer those questions. There is a mini-quiz near the end of the lesson.

Word

The grammar checker included in Word was developed in the 90s. For some reason, Microsoft has never upgraded their grammar checker since it was first developed. But still, it is the best grammar checker available, despite numerous criticisms of it.

When the feature is turned on, Word's grammar checker placed his green squiggly lines under questionable words or phrases. It then offers suggestions to correct the potential grammatical error. There seems to be a great emphasis on avoiding passive phrases.

When writing a web page, I will often copy and paste it into Word to check my grammar.

Whitesmoke

Whitesmoke writing software integrates well within Word and other writing applications. The company is continually upgrading the software application.

Whitesmoke seems to emphasize being a thesaurus, rather than improving grammar. The program offers suggestions on the grammar of single words, but doesn't really look into the context of the sentence, thus resulting in some incorrect suggestions. Still, it might be an added tool for grammar checking. It also seems an option for those using a word processor that does not include a grammar checker.

The application retails for about $79. You can go to their site for more information and to purchase the software from: WhiteSmoke Writer.

Editor

Serenity Software's Editor is a good grammar checker for teachers and students. It does not integrate with other word processors, so you need to paste your text into Editorials owned text processor. The resulting output not only checks your grammar but also offers suggestions and explanations for variety of writing questions.

As it so are retails for $45. You can go to their site for more information and to purchase the software from: Serenity Software.

Summary

Since good grammar is essential in writing, it is good to also use a computer-based grammar checker. The most common one used is the grammar checker that is included with Microsoft Word. Two other grammar checkers are Whitesmoke Writing Software and Serenity Software Editor, which can be purchased separately.

Answers to Readers' Questions


Write well


Resources

The following resources provide information on this subject:

Websites

WhiteSmoke Writer

Serenity Software

Writing Resources

Screenwriting Resources

Writing Resources for Students

Books

Top-rated books on Fiction Writing

Top-rated books on Non-fiction Writing

Miscellaneous


Mini-quiz to check your understanding

1. Why is it worthwhile to have the grammar checking feature turned on in Word?

Word will not work without the feature turned on

It is only useful for people not familiar with writing

It may highlight grammatical errors that you hadn't noticed

2. What is an advantage of the Whitesmoke product?

It integrates well with various writing programs

It automatically changes everything you have written

It is free

3. How can Editor help writers?

It has numerous sounds that indicate errors

It explains the rules of grammar for various mistakes

Editor is only for editors

If you got all three correct, you are on your way to becoming a Champion in Writing. If you had problems, you had better look over the material again.


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