The Writers Handbook 2nd Edition

A Guide to Grammar and Usage for Writers and Editors

Since it was first published in 1992, The Writers Handbook has become a highly regarded and widely used reference on grammar and usage by senior secondary and tertiary students, and in a number of professions and occupations where effective English is essential.

The new edition contains a number of improvements in content and organisation with new material, including relevant examples and applications. The new edition reflects current thinking on usage and style, showing how the language works and how it can be used to express meaning clearly and effectively.

All aspects of grammar and usage are covered with clear explanations and examples. Each section has a checklist of essential points.

Contents

• Outline and quick reference
• Introduction

1 Defining the boundaries

• What is your purpose?
• Who is your audience?
• How will you say it?
• What writing form will you use?
• What tone will you use?

2 Working with words

• Nouns
• Pronouns
• Adjectives
• Verbs
• Adverbs
• Conjunctions
• Prepositions

3 Building with words

• Clauses
• Sentences
• Constructing clear and effective sentences
• Paragraphs

4 Checking the Mechanics

• Punctuation
• Capital letters
• Shortened forms
• Direct and indirect speech
• Spelling
• Using hyphens
• Lists

5 Creating effects

• Choosing words
• Arranging words
• Creating special effects
• Effects to avoid