Spelling

1.  Realize that spelling can be improved.

Don’t fall into the trap of excusing yourself by claiming that you were born a bad speller and there’s nothing you can do about it.  You may not become an excellent speller, but you can improve.

2.  Keep a list of your personal problem words.

Note both your incorrect spelling and the correct spelling.

3.  Consult lists of commonly confused words and commonly misspelled words. 

4.  Learn to say words and emphasize spelling as you pronounce them.

5.  Write in cursive, or type. 

The speed of cursive writing or typing eventually allows you to spell words using a single motion of writing or key strokes, rather than using a separate motion for each letter.

6.  Learn some basic spelling rules.

7.  Consult a quick, easy-to-use self-study text such as 6 Minutes a Day to Perfect Spelling, by Harry Schefter (New York: Pocket Books, 1976).

8.  Use a speller’s dictionary or hand-held speller’s computer. 

9.  Use the spell check on your computer!  

I am stunned by how many people there are who do not use all the writing technology at their disposal.
Some say they don’t know how to use the spell checker or that it takes too long. Take the time to learn how to use it — it’s time well spent.  Perhaps some feel it’s “cheating” to use the spell checker.  Use all the technology at your disposal!

Spell Check is a very helpful tool — but watch out for homophones!  You need to know the difference between your two’s, too’s and to’s, in case your computer’s grammar check doesn’t!