#Authors #Grammar & MS Word

Commonly Confused words affect effect I have noticed while using Microsoft Word,  that sometimes the grammar checker is not accurate. If you are self-publishing and do your own round of edits then I have a couple thoughts for you. First, I recommend that if you have a question about a word or phrase that MS Word is 'highlighting', you should research further. I generally start with the dictionary dot com_ search bar.  Of course, Google search is great for looking up grammar issues like those in Word Help alerts (negation use is one I have run into).  Like everything else in the world of writing, not all sources agree. In those cases, I suggest you use your best judgement. 

If The Chicago Manual of Style Online comes up during your research, go ahead and look. It is great for searching out those pesky grammar issues.  You may find some answers to questions you did not realize you had. However, be aware that if you wish to see exactly what the manual says, you need to be a paid member. While $35, as an individual, may not be that much to some, it is a lot of money to others.  Also, do not fall for the free PDF versions you may find on other websites, that is another way for your email to get lots and lots of visits.

I am not saying ignore the Microsoft Word proofreader, but if there is a difference of opinion and you are not positive of the answer, do your due diligence. If you discover you knew what you were doing all along, have fun hitting the ignore button. 

Have a great one!
Lynn Hallbrooks
http://cswcllc.weebly.com/blog