A proofreading checklist before you hit send
Use this proofreading checklist for emails, applications and documents. Check words, sentences, facts, format and final details before you send. Read it now.
Online-Spellcheck Blog
Writing tips
Practical writing tips: how to write clearly, proofread your own text, beat writer's block, and make every sentence easier to read.
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How to annotate books like a pro: 3 levels to try
Learn how to annotate books like a pro: why it helps you remember what you read, the supplies you need, and 3 levels, from sticky tabs to notes in the margins.
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5 powerful ChatGPT prompts for writing
Learn 5 ChatGPT prompts for writing: a formula for essays and poems, keywords such as rephrase and elaborate, style changes, proofreading, and role prompts.
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Blog writing: how to write great blog posts
Blog writing gets easier in phases. Learn how to write great blog posts in 6 steps: collect ideas, draft, write, revise, add images, and publish with care.
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How to write an essay: a step-by-step tutorial
Learn how to write an essay step by step: what an essay is, its three parts, how to research and plan it, and how to reread it before you hand it in.
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Types of persuasive writing: logos, pathos, and ethos
The 3 types of persuasive writing appeal to reason (logos), emotion (pathos), and character (ethos). See how each one works and how to combine them.
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How to write an opinion piece: 5 tips
An opinion piece takes a firm stand and argues for it with facts. Learn 5 tips: open with a hook, back up your claims, take a side, suggest a fix, and be brief.
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Why freewriting is good for teens: 4 benefits
Freewriting lets teens write without rules for a set time. Learn what freewriting is and how it beats writer's block, builds confidence, and starts a habit.
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How to encourage teens to write: 4 tips for parents
How to encourage teens to write: let them pick the topic and style, stop correcting every mistake, get them reading, and listen to what they have to say.
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Passing the time by writing: 4 ways to make it count
Passing the time by writing works best with a plan: read widely, learn from other writers, set your own deadlines, and step back now and then to reflect.
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How to make time to write: 6 tips for busy people
Too busy to write? Learn how to make time to write in short bursts, before bed, in the morning, or on your commute, and which habits to cut to free up time.
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6 tips on writing a good book review
Learn how to write a good book review: read the whole book, take notes, choose the right tone, give your own opinion, and say whether you recommend it.
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Tips for sharing your writing for the first time
Sharing your writing for the first time feels scary. Find a writers group, be courteous, ask for specific feedback, and decide which criticism to keep.
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What makes a memorable wedding speech? 7 tips
A memorable wedding speech is short, warm, and about the couple. Learn 7 tips: introduce yourself, say thanks, tell a story, skip risky jokes, and practice.
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Use sensory words to avoid writing bland content
Sensory words let readers see, hear, touch, taste, and smell what you write. Learn why they make content engaging, with example words for each of the 5 senses.
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Using peer correction to improve students' writing skills
Peer correction has students correct each other's writing. Learn how it builds their writing skills, saves you time, and how to help reluctant students.
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Should kids be given rules when writing?
Too many writing rules can spoil a child's joy of writing. Learn which rules kids need, when to let them write freely, and how teachers can balance the two.
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How to write a good science paper
Learn how to write a good science paper: the structure from introduction to discussion, and 7 pointers on tense, voice, sentence length, and proofreading.
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How to give effective feedback on students' writing
Effective feedback on students' writing starts with a clear goal. Learn 5 steps: set criteria, praise strengths, show how to improve, and let students apply it.
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Reflective writing: what is it and how do you write it?
Reflective writing is writing about what you did, thought, and learned. Learn its purpose, its 3-part structure, the right voice, and where to find examples.
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How to write a descriptive paragraph in 5 steps
Learn how to write a descriptive paragraph in 5 steps: pick one topic, collect details, organize them, show it with all 5 senses, and proofread.
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Helping students to excel in writing: 4 tips for teachers
Help your students excel in writing with 4 tips for teachers: give clear instructions, get them reading, let them practice often, and give useful feedback.
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How and where to find inspiration to write
Waiting for inspiration rarely works. Learn how and where to find inspiration to write: watch people, play story games, try new music, travel, and ask.
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How to improve your writing speed: 8 tips
Learn how to write faster with 8 practical tips: set a clear goal, outline first, research before you write, use placeholders, take breaks, and set a deadline.
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Writing is fun if you make it so: 5 ways to enjoy it
Writing does not have to be a chore. Learn 5 ways to make writing fun, from dropping the need to be original to leaving the grammar for later.
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7 signs of excellent writing: a checklist for your next text
Is your writing up to par? Check it against 7 signs of excellent writing, from an informative title and short sentences to simple words and no misspellings.
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How to dumb down your writing without talking down to readers
Learn how to dumb down your writing without insulting readers: use simpler words, explain jargon, shorten sentences, aim for clarity, and test readability.
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How to proofread effectively in 5 steps
Learn how to proofread effectively in 5 steps: put your text away first, look for one kind of error at a time, read slowly, read aloud, and keep notes.
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What is persuasive writing? Types, appeals, and tips
Persuasive writing tries to make readers believe or do something. Learn its common types, the appeals of ethos, pathos, and logos, and how to write a pitch.
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How to write a thank-you message: 5 tips
Learn how to write a thank-you message in 5 steps: greet the person properly, say thank you, be specific, keep it short, and thank them again before you close.
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How to write condolences: short messages that comfort
Learn how to write condolences that comfort: short sympathy messages you can use, how to offer real help, and why a note a year later means so much.
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How to improve your prose writing: 4 tips
Prose is everything that is not poetry. Learn how to improve your prose writing: stay focused, state facts up front, cut the fluff, and use the passive well.
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Using different tones in writing: 3 questions to ask first
Learn how to switch between tones in writing, from optimistic to humorous or pessimistic, by asking why you write, who reads it, and what you want from them.
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3 best places to do research when writing
The 3 best places to do research when writing: forums for real experience, YouTube for what words can't show, and the library for in-depth material.
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How to add personality to your writing
A distinct voice makes readers remember you. Learn 4 easy ways to add personality to your writing: tell stories, know your audience, break rules, read aloud.
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How to simplify your content
Simple content saves readers time and helps people who scan. Learn 3 easy ways to simplify your content: short sentences, simpler parts, and plain analogies.
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How to make your writing more interesting: 5 tips
Learn how to make your writing more interesting: talk to your reader, tell a story, add images and videos, and use a little humor where it fits.
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3 strategies to become a better writer
Want to become a better writer? Learn 3 strategies that work: fix your weaknesses one at a time, step out of your comfort zone, and proofread your work.
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Breaking out of writer's block: 6 easy ways to start again
Writer's block can hit anyone. Here are 6 easy ways to break out of it: write every day, meet other writers, rest, save perfection for later, and just start.
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7 ways writing is good for your health
Writing about your thoughts and feelings does more than clear your head. Learn 7 ways writing is good for your health, from your memory to your immune system.
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6 tips for writing awesome sentences
Learn 6 tips for writing awesome sentences: use concrete details, keep sentences short, paint pictures, start with and or but, and write for your reader.
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How a love of writing helps kids, according to a study
Kids who enjoy writing outside school are 7 times more likely to write above the level expected for their age. Learn what the study found and what it means.
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How long should paragraphs be?
There is no fixed rule for paragraph length, but 3 to 7 sentences is a common guideline. Learn how to build a paragraph and when to break the rule.
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11 great tips for improving your writing
Improve your writing with 11 simple tips: plan before you write, match your style to your readers, write on a schedule, edit other people's work, and more.
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10 crutch words to avoid when you speak or write
Basically, literally, really: crutch words fill a pause but weaken what you say. Learn the 10 crutch words to avoid when speaking or writing, with examples.
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6 tips for effective writing, with examples
Effective writing gets your point across. Learn 6 tips for effective writing: be concrete, practice daily, cut filler phrases, research well, and stay active.
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9 reasons why handwriting benefits your brain
Writing by hand still matters. Learn 9 reasons why handwriting benefits your brain, from learning and memory to focus, calm, creativity, and coordination.
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How to write a research paper: 8 tips
Learn how to write a research paper step by step: pick a narrow topic, find reliable sources, outline, keep your notes in order, draft, and check it.
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Redundancies to avoid when writing, from A to Z
Redundancies such as added bonus or unite together say the same thing twice. Learn what redundancies in writing are, and use the A to Z list to cut them.
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How to write a letter of condolence: tips and an example
Learn how to write a letter of condolence: why a personal letter means more than a card, how to structure it, and an example letter you can adapt.
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8 writing exercises to improve your writing skills
Describe a picture, learn a word a day, play word association, write a how-to, edit others: 8 writing exercises that improve your writing skills with practice.
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Writing on a deadline: how to plan, prioritize, and finish
Writing on a deadline is stressful. Learn how to plan realistically, prioritize your writing, break it into chunks, avoid distractions, and take real breaks.
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Exercises against writing pain in your wrists and neck
Long writing sessions can leave your wrists, fingers, and neck sore. These simple stretches and tips ease writing pain, whether you type or write by hand.
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Persuasive vs argumentative writing: what is the difference?
Persuasive and argumentative writing both try to convince. Learn the key difference: persuasion uses opinion and emotion, argument relies on evidence and logic.
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Treat your mom to a loving Mother's Day letter
A Mother's Day letter tells your mom what she means to you. Get ideas on what to write: what she taught you, shared memories, her strengths, and a few tips.
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Writing motivation: you are a writer already
Do you dream of becoming a writer? The best writing motivation is a simple fact: if you write, you are a writer already. Here is why it matters to remember it.
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How to write a killer podcast script
Learn how to write a podcast script: plan the episode, write for the ear, open and close it well, and start from a simple blueprint for a short show.
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How to choose between formal and informal writing styles
Formal and informal writing follow different rules. Learn what sets the two styles apart, from contractions to sentence length, and when to use each one.
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What is a bibliography and why do you need one?
A bibliography lists every source you used in your research. Learn what a bibliography is, what each entry should contain, and why your paper needs one.
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Bad grammar can cost you your next date
Typos in a dating profile or a first message can put people off. Learn why bad grammar can cost you a date and how lazy texting turns into a habit.
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Citations: how to do them properly
Citations credit the work you build on. Learn how to cite sources properly: in-text citations, direct and indirect quotes, footnotes, and endnotes.
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How word games can improve your writing
Scrabble, crosswords, and Hangman teach you new words and how to spell them while you play. Learn how word games can improve your writing, and which to try.
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How to write a descriptive essay that engages the reader
Learn how to write a descriptive essay: appeal to all 5 senses, use similes and metaphors, plan with an outline and a thesis, and review it with fresh eyes.
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Tips for helping your child be a better writer
Help your child be a better writer: build a love of reading, set up a quiet place to write, play word games together, and be a role model who writes too.
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How to beat writer's block and motivate yourself to write
Learn how to beat writer's block and motivate yourself to write: allow yourself to daydream, use your emotions, keep your deadlines, and write what you love.
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Why grammar and spelling still matter in the age of autocorrect
Autocorrect does not make good spelling optional. Learn why grammar and spelling matter to employers and readers, and where texting habits let you down.
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Why writing at night helps
Writing at night helps many writers: the day has filled your head with ideas, the house is quiet, and nothing distracts you. Learn why the late hours work.
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How to write during the summer break: 3 tips
Learn how to write during the summer break: set goals that fit the time you really have, use the quiet early mornings, or write late at night.
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How to get rid of writer's block: 6 ways to write again
Learn how to get rid of writer's block: focus on your characters, cut distractions, write freely for ten minutes, watch, read, and write about the block.
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How to write a thank-you note: who, what, and when
Learn how to write a thank-you note in 3 parts: who to thank, what to write from greeting to closing, and when to send it so that your thanks still counts.
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Plagiarism on the internet: how to give credit online
Plagiarism on the internet goes beyond copied text: photos, videos, and music count too. Learn its common forms and how to credit the original source.
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Writing games for kids: 3 ways to make writing fun
Writing games for kids turn writing into fun. Learn 3 easy games, from telephone on paper to a story told one sentence at a time and a persuasive letter.
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The best way to write a speech: 6 tips
The best way to write a speech: build it on one memorable idea, give it a clear structure and a strong opening, strike the right tone, repeat, and check it.
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How to avoid plagiarism: what it is and how to prevent it
Plagiarism is more than copying: missing quotation marks and borrowed sentence structure count too. Learn what plagiarism is and how to avoid it in your work.
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Why you should use a thesaurus
A thesaurus lists words grouped by meaning. Learn why you should use a thesaurus, how it makes your writing more varied and precise, and where to find one.
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How to write a love letter in your own words
Learn how to write a love letter that sounds like you: pick good paper, answer a few questions to find your words, and open with what makes them special.
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How to improve your English writing skills
Improve your English writing skills with 4 habits: choose plain words over long Latin ones, use active verbs, keep it short, and check your spelling.
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Redundant words: why you should avoid them
Redundant words such as return back or absolutely free add length but no meaning. Learn what pleonasm is, see common examples, and when an extra word is fine.
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The perfect social media post: tips for each platform
Learn how to write the perfect social media post for Facebook, X, Instagram, Tumblr, and Pinterest: pictures, length, hashtags, grammar, and content.
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Christmas letter ideas: what to write about
Christmas letter ideas for what to write: start with family news, then add your favorite books and meals, your hobbies, surprises, and shared memories.
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Where to find ideas to write about: 6 ways
Out of ideas? Learn where to find ideas to write about: everyday things, your own thoughts, a new route, strangers, junk mail, and someone else's shoes.
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How to write a good holiday letter
How to write a good holiday letter: start on a happy note, keep to the highlights, sound like yourself, think of every reader, and leave out the bragging.
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How to improve your writing: 7 practical tips
Good writing is a skill you can learn. These 7 tips show how to improve your writing: draft before you edit, accept feedback, cut words, and check spelling.
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How to write a college application essay: 7 tips
Learn how to write a college application essay step by step: brainstorm, outline, write a first draft, stay honest, revise, get feedback, and proofread.
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How to write when you're struggling: 3 tips
Learn how to write when you're struggling: find the time and place where you write best, shut out distractions, and simply start writing to get into the flow.
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Don't lose your inspiration: write first, proofread later
Don't let a misspelling break your flow. Learn why to separate writing and proofreading, and follow 4 steps: write, then check spelling, grammar, and logic.