The problem (and the beauty) of language is that the spoken word changes far more rapidly than the written. In the middle ages, for example, we pronounced the k in knife. Mind you, we also spelt Lady Godiva, Lady Godgifu.
Due to the number of languages that have influenced English over the past centuries, it is fair to say that spelling isn’t always straightforward. Whilst some languages, such as German and Spanish, are spelt with a high degree of phonetic accuracy, academics tell us that English is spelt phonetically wrong a quarter of the time.
Whether you regard yourself as good at spelling or not, the odd mistakes are bound to get through. So here are six tips for avoiding basic errors in spelling.
Use the ‘find’ function of Microsoft Word
If you always misspell a certain word –such as the name of a company – or if you get confused between two similar words with different meanings, then check your document with the ‘find’ function (Ctrl + F). Be wary of using ‘find and replace’ though, unless you are very confident that the specific combination of letters you are using don’t appear in the middle of any other word. Otherwise, you could end up with some very interesting spellings of your own invention!
Add to the electronic dictionary
One of the problems with electronic spelling checkers is that their vocabulary is never large enough to encompass all of the words we use day-to-day, especially when it comes to very specific business or technical terms. So you end up with a screen full of red underlining, most of which is correct and none of which you want to go through.
To prevent this happening, use the ‘add to dictionary’ function every time you encounter a word the spelling checker doesn’t recognise. This may be time consuming to begin with, but it soon becomes just a matter of adding the odd word. From that moment on you will be able to see your mistakes and not just the idiosyncrasies of the software.
Be aware of homophones
Homophones are words which sound the same but mean different things – and are therefore spelt differently. Examples include you’re and your, who’s and whose and hear and here. Electronic spelling checkers often won’t pick these up.
Keep a dictionary by the desk
This is not a sign of weakness; merely of precision.
Build a ‘wobbly word’ bank
Make a note of any word you need to look up, or the spelling checker corrects for you (assuming the checker is right!). That way, you’ll build your own personal checklist or ‘wobbly word bank’ and learn it over time.
Practise spelling
At the end of the day, you will just have to learn some words off by heart. Here are some of the most commonly misspelt words that we come across, with some handy mnemonics:
1. necessary (one collar and two sleeves)
2. liaise (we will praise you for spelling liaise)
3. separate (separate is set apart)
All of our tips and tricks come from experience, which we have plenty of here at Writing Machine. For almost 30 years we have been creating outstanding marketing, sales and bid content for clients using our unique Structured Writing Method.
Training in the Structured Writing Method can transform the way people think and work as well as write. To discuss the benefits for your particular organisation, please contact us at hello@writingmachine.com, or give us a call on + 44 (0)1962 841250.