Grammar Tips You Can Use Right Now

Ever wonder why some sentences feel smooth while others feel clunky? The answer often lies in tiny details like commas, verb forms, and word order. The good news is you don’t need a grammar degree to fix them. Below are the most useful tips that work for emails, essays, or social media posts.

1. Master the Comma Basics

Commas separate ideas, but too many can confuse readers. Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) when it links two independent clauses: "I wanted to bake a cake, but the oven was broken." If the clause after the conjunction can stand alone, you still need the comma.

Another easy rule: add a comma after introductory words or phrases. "After lunch, we headed to the market." This pause tells the reader to breathe and makes the sentence clearer.

2. Keep Subject‑Verb Agreement Simple

Subject and verb must match in number. Singular subjects need singular verbs: "The dog barks." Plural subjects take plural verbs: "The dogs bark." When the subject is a collective noun like "team" or "group," treat it as singular unless you’re emphasizing individual members: "The team wins" vs. "The team are arguing among themselves."

Beware of tricky phrases that start with "along with," "as well as," or "including." The main subject still determines the verb: "The manager, along with his assistants, is attending the meeting."

By mastering commas and subject‑verb agreement, you’ll see instant improvement in readability. Next time you write, pause, spot these patterns, and tweak them. Your readers will thank you, and you’ll feel more confident about every sentence you put down.