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

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Other common problems:

• using noun strings in place of verbs

• commas splices and run-on sentences

• confusing affect" and "effect."

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Students who need advice and guidance may consult:

• online resources for writers. My favorites include:

  • William Strunk's classic (1918) Elements of Style

  • 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.

  • a list of links to many online writing resources

• 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

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Last updated 10-1-2010 ©Dave Thompson, Ph.D., P.T.