Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar (SPAG)

Many students struggle with aspects of Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar for a variety reasons, but these three aspects of writing are important if you want to get information across to your reader in a clear and precise manner. Whether it is writing an essay or applying for a job or university place, correct spelling, punctuation and grammar will:

• create a good impression on the reader
• ensure your meaning or point is clear
• make the difference between a ‘good’ grade and an ‘excellent’ one
• make the difference between getting an interview or your application being rejected

Below, we provide some useful links and resources to help you to improve your written work.

Commonly Confused Words

It’s or its? https://www.bristol.ac.uk/arts/exercises/grammar/grammar_tutorial/page_13.htm

The Colon and Semicolon

Books:

Copus, J. (2009). Brilliant writing tips for students. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan. HE Library classification 428 COP

Field, M. (2005). Spell well: boost your word power and your confidence. (2nd ed.). Oxford: How To Books Ltd. HE Library classification 428.1 FIE

Peck, J. & Coyle, M. (2005). The student’s guide to writing: grammar, punctuation and spelling. (2nd ed.). Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan. HE Library classification 428 PEC

Soles, D. (2008). Perfect grammar: how to recognise, correct and avoid grammatical errors. Abergele: Studymates Ltd. HE Library classification 428 SOL

NB: the above books are just a small selection of available resources at The Library.

Websites:

https://www.adelaide.edu.au/english-for-uni/

http://hull-awe.org.uk/index.php/Grammar_course

https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/purdue_owl.html

https://www.perfect-english-grammar.com/index.html

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/english-usage/apps/awe/