English Grammar: Introduction

This grammar section of English WebWorkbooks has been planned to help you become a more effective speaker, writer, and conversationalist. After studying the following units, you will have a very clear understanding of the fundamental principles underlying good English. Keep in mind, however, that learning or knowing the rules of grammar is not an end in itself. The end is the ability to use what you have learned in order to make your speaking and writing clear, forceful, and interesting.

Actually, the ability to express your ideas clearly and easily to others is often just as important as the ideas themselves. Only through language — through the words you speak and write — can you convey your thoughts, knowledge, and ideas. And it is primarily through words that you influence people, express your feelings and emotions, direct, assist, and communicate with others from the moment you wake each day until you go to bed at night.

No matter what your past experience with the study of language has been, you should find this study of English one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences you have ever had. You will discover, as you proceed through the course, that there is no more fascinating study than the study of what words do and what you can make them do.

Be sure to use and apply what you learn to your everyday activities. Re-read your social and business letters after they are written. Analyze your own speaking habits and listen to the speech of others. Doing these things will make you conscious of the importance of good English, and will help you eliminate any errors that you now make.