Grammar Help
On this page you'll find various resources offering help on grammar and English more broadly (both free and paid).
Online Help forums (free)
These grammar help forums are all about asking and giving answers; they are not discussion forums. These forums are best if you have a specific question needing a specific answer. They are not intended for checking your grammar or editing essays.
- EnglishClub Grammar Help Forum
Expert advice from a human (non-AI) language professor. Unlike some Grammar Help sources, answers in EnglishClub Grammar Help are not generated by artificial intelligence such as ChatGPT. Learners may be sure of receiving expert and human answers to all your strictly grammar questions. - EnglishClub Help Each Other with English Forum
Members help members on grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation and all aspects of English. AI input is strictly limited. A valuable resource for learners and teachers seeking help with grammar and language usage more generally. - Reddit Grammar Subreddit
A subreddit for questions and discussions about grammar, language, style, conventions and punctuation. As discussed in this subreddit, some questions are answered by or with the help of AI sources such as ChatGPI and are unreliable. Reddit editors attempt to minimize the influence of AI. - English Language & Usage Stack Exchange
As a question and answer site for linguists, etymologists and serious English-language enthusiasts, this exchange may be rather challenging for all but the highest-level English learners.
Asking grammar questions in a help forum can be a good way to improve your understanding, but to get the most out of the experience, consider the following advice:
- Be clear and specific
State Your Question Clearly: Provide a precise question or issue. Instead of asking, “Can you help me with grammar?” specify what part of grammar you’re struggling with, e.g., “I’m confused about the use of the Past Perfect tense in this sentence.”
Provide Context: Include the full sentence or paragraph you’re questioning. Context helps responders understand the issue better and give more accurate advice.
- Do some preliminary research
Check for Similar Questions: Before posting, look through or search the forum to see if your question has already been answered. This can save time and provide immediate answers.
Use Available Resources: Review grammar rules and explanations from trusted resources like grammar websites or style guides before seeking help.
- Be polite and patient
Thank Responders: Express gratitude for any assistance provided. Courteousness fosters a positive atmosphere and encourages others to help.
Be Patient: Remember that forum members might take some time to respond, as they are often volunteers.
- Provide and request examples
Use Examples: When asking about a grammar rule, provide examples of how you’re trying to use it. For instance, if you’re unsure about subject-verb agreement, include sentences where you’re unsure.
Ask for Clarification: If a response isn’t clear, don’t hesitate to ask follow-up questions to get a better explanation (where the forum allows).
- Be open to feedback
Consider Different Perspectives: Be open to various interpretations and explanations. Grammar rules can sometimes be applied differently depending on context and style.
Implement Suggestions: Try out the advice given and see how it works in practice. If you’re still unsure, ask for further clarification or additional examples.
- Share your learning
Acknowledge Solutions: If a response helps you solve your problem, acknowledge it. Sharing how the solution worked for you can be helpful to others who might have similar questions.
Contribute Back: If you’re comfortable, try to help others with their grammar questions once you’ve gained more understanding. This creates a supportive learning community.
- Use proper forum etiquette
Follow Forum Rules: Adhere to any specific guidelines or rules of the forum regarding posting and asking questions.
Stay On-Topic: Keep discussions focused on grammar /English and avoid deviating into unrelated topics.
- Provide additional details if needed
Mention Your Proficiency Level: Indicating your level of understanding (beginner, intermediate, advanced) can help responders tailor their answers to your needs.
Include Relevant Information: If the question pertains to writing style or context (e.g., academic vs. informal writing), mention it so that responders can give more contextually appropriate advice.
By following these guidelines, you’ll make it easier for others to help you and ensure that you get the most accurate and useful advice possible.
Grammar checkers (free and paid)
There are a variety of grammar help resources available online, with options ranging from free to paid. Here’s a breakdown to help you find what suits your needs:
- Grammarly:Â A popular tool that provides grammar, punctuation and style suggestions. There’s a free version with basic features.
- Hemingway Editor:Â Focuses on readability and style, highlighting complex sentences and passive voice. The online version is free.
- Ginger Software:Â Offers grammar and spell-checking. The free version has basic features, but there’s also a premium version with more advanced tools.
- Purdue OWL:Â Provides assistance with English to students and teachers, with the goal of helping users in their development as writers.
- QuillBot Grammar Checker: Corrects mistakes, and claims to improve writing instantly.
- Scribens:Â A grammar checker that offers advanced features in its premium version.
Note about artificial Intelligence (AI)
ChatGPT says: "AI tools like ChatGPT provide responses based on patterns learned from a vast amount of text. While they can offer helpful explanations and corrections, they might not always capture the full nuance or context of a specific grammar question. AI models are not infallible and can make mistakes or provide incomplete information." It is good practice to cross-check AI-generated answers with reputable grammar resources or authoritative style guides.