Bad writing habits we all struggle
with
:
passive voice constructions
misplaced modifying clauses
inappropriate switching among
verb tenses
inappropriate paragraph structure, including misleading topic sentences
Other common problems:
using noun strings in place of
verbs
commas splices and
run-on sentences
confusing
affect" and "effect."
Students who need advice and guidance may consult:
answers to
frequently asked questions
about writing papers in the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences
a checklist constructed to help
first-year students
avoid common errors
Division of Rehabilitation Sciences. (1998).
Writing guidelines
. In
Student policies and guidelines handbook
(pp. 39-49). Oklahoma City, OK: Author.
Guidelines for reporting and writing about people with disabilities
from the
Research & Training Center on Independent Living
a commentary on the need to use
"people-first language"
from the editor of
Physical Therapy
online resources for writers. My favorites include:
a very useful
Guide to Grammar and Style
by Jack Lynch, an Assistant Professor of English at Rutgers University's Newark campus.
Paul Brian's guide to
Common Errors in English
, from the Washington State University Department of English.
William Strunk's classic (as in 1918)
Elements of Style
a list of links to many
online writing resources
Last updated 8-13-2008 ©
Dave Thompson, Ph.D., P.T.