Common Grammar Mistakes in Essays and Emails Every Writer Makes

Most writers think their essays or emails look fine until someone points out the tiny grammar mistakes that ruin everything. Common grammar mistakes in essays and emails are sneaky, and most people don’t even realize they are making them. From awkward sentences to missing commas, these errors make work look careless or unprofessional. This blog catches the mistakes you never knew you were making and offers easy fixes. 

Why Grammar Mistakes Matter in Essays and Emails

Grammar mistakes in essays and emails may seem small, but they make a huge difference. Students often lose marks for tiny errors that could have been fixed with a quick check. Professionals appear careless or unprofessional when emails contain wrong tenses, missing commas, or slang. Even smart ideas can get ignored if the writing is messy. Grammar mistakes confuse readers. Noticing and fixing them shows attention to detail and builds confidence.

Common Grammar Mistakes in Essays

Common mistakes often lower grades or make the essay hard to read. Here is a list of the most common grammar mistakes students make in essays. 

Mistake 1: Subject-Verb Agreement Errors

The subject and verb must match in number. Many students pick the wrong verb without noticing.

Example of Incorrect Use: The list of items are long.

Correct Version: The list of items is long.

Fix: The subject should always determine the verb. Singular subjects take singular verbs; plural subjects take plural verbs.

Mistake 2: Tense Switching

The tense of the sentence should stay consistent. Students often mix past, present, and future in the same sentence.

Example of Incorrect Use: She was walking to school and suddenly runs into her friend.

Correct Version: She was walking to school and suddenly ran into her friend.

Fix: The time frame of the sentence or paragraph should be clear and consistent.

Mistake 3: Overusing Passive Voice

The sentence subject should usually do the action. Overusing passive voice makes writing unclear and dull.

Example of Incorrect Use: The experiment was completed by the students.

Correct Version: The students completed the experiment.

Fix: The person or thing performing the action should start the sentence.

Mistake 4: Comma Splices

Two complete sentences joined by a comma are incorrect. Students often do this without realizing it.

Example of Incorrect Use: I love to write, it is my passion.

Correct Version: I love to write, and it is my passion.

Fix: A period, semicolon, or conjunction can join the sentences correctly.

Mistake 5: Run-On Sentences

The sentence should have proper punctuation. Run-on sentences confuse readers.

Example of Incorrect Use: I went to the store I bought milk I came home.

Correct Version: I went to the store, bought milk, and came home.

Fix: Each idea should have its pause. Insert commas or periods where needed.

Mistake 6: Fragmented Sentences

The sentence should express a complete thought. Fragments make writing feel unfinished.

Example of Incorrect Use: Because I was tired.

Correct Version: I stayed home because I was tired.

Fix: Every sentence should have a subject and verb, forming a complete idea.

Mistake 7: Misusing Apostrophes

The apostrophe shows possession or contraction. Students often confuse “it’s” and “its.”

Example of Incorrect Use: Its a nice day.

Correct Version: It’s a nice day.

Fix: “It’s” means “it is.” “Its” shows possession. Reading aloud helps check the meaning.

Mistake 8: Missing Articles 

The article should come before the noun. Skipping articles makes sentences awkward.

Example of Incorrect Use: She is best student in class.

Correct Version: She is the best student in the class.

Fix: “A” or “an” is for general nouns. “The” is for specific nouns.

Mistake 9: Overusing “Very” and “Really”

The adjective should show the exact meaning. Words like “very” and “really” make writing weak.

Example of Incorrect Use: This is very very good.

Correct Version: This is excellent.

Fix: Strong adjectives replace weak words. Keep a list handy for replacements.

Mistake 10: Wrong Prepositions

The preposition should match the verb or expression. Wrong ones make sentences sound off.

Example of Incorrect Use: She is good in dancing.

Correct Version: She is good at dancing.

Fix: Prepositions often pair with specific verbs: “good at,” “interested in,” “afraid of.”

Mistake 11: Misplaced Modifiers

The modifier should be next to the word it describes. Misplacing it confuses the reader.

Example of Incorrect Use: I almost wrote 10 pages every day.

Correct Version: I wrote almost 10 pages every day.

Fix: Place descriptive words or phrases close to the noun or verb they modify. Read sentences aloud to check clarity.

Mistake 12: Redundant Words

Redundant words repeat ideas unnecessarily. They make writing longer and weaker.

Example of Incorrect Use: Each and every student should attend.

Correct Version: Every student should attend.

Fix: Remove extra words that don’t add meaning. Keep sentences short and clear.

Mistake 13: Confusing Homophones (There/Their/They’re)

Homophones sound the same but have different meanings. Misusing them makes writing look careless.

Example of Incorrect Use: Their going to the library.

Correct Version: They’re going to the library.

Fix: Learn meanings: “There” is for place, “Their” is for possession, “They’re” is for they are. Always check context.

Mistake 14: Capitalization Problems

Proper nouns and sentence beginnings need capital letters. Wrong capitalization looks sloppy.

Example of Incorrect Use: I love english.

Correct Version: I love English.

Fix: Capitalize names, languages, months, and first words of sentences.

Mistake 15: Wrong Plural Forms

Plural nouns must be correct. Irregular plurals are often used incorrectly.

Example of Incorrect Use: Childs are playing.

Correct Version: Children are playing.

Fix: Learn common irregular plural forms and apply them.

Mistake 16: Using “Could Of” Instead of “Could Have”

“Could of” is a very common mistake in writing. It sounds like “could’ve” but is wrong in writing.

Example of Incorrect Use: I could of won the game.

Correct Version: I could have won the game.

Fix: Always write the full form “could have,” “should have,” “would have” in formal writing.

Mistake 17: Too Many Exclamation Marks

Exclamation marks should be used sparingly. Overusing them looks unprofessional.

Example of Incorrect Use: I am so excited!!!

Correct Version: I am so excited!

Fix: Use one exclamation mark at most. Let words show excitement instead of punctuation.

Mistake 18: Slang or Texting Language in Essays

Slang and texting language do not belong in essays. They make writing look casual and careless.

Example of Incorrect Use: LOL that movie was lit.

Correct Version: That movie was very entertaining.

Fix: Use formal words in essays. Reserve slang for chats or informal writing.

Mistake 19: Overuse of “There is/There are”

Sentences starting with “there is/there are” too often feel weak and repetitive.

Example of Incorrect Use: There are many people who think this is wrong.

Correct Version: Many people think this is wrong.

Fix: Start sentences with the subject to make writing stronger and more direct.

Mistake 20: Forgetting to Proofread

Proofreading is essential. Skipping it leaves hidden errors in your work.

Example of Incorrect Use: This essay is great it makes sense perfect.

Correct Version: This essay is great. It makes perfect sense.

Fix: Always read your essay at least once before submitting. Reading aloud helps catch mistakes.

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Common Grammar Mistakes in Emails

Many people think casual writing is fine, but errors in grammar, tone, or structure confuse readers and damage credibility. Even smart ideas can get ignored if the email looks careless. Here are the most common grammar mistakes in emails with easy ways to fix them.

Mistake 1: Writing Overly Long Sentences

Long sentences make emails hard to read. Readers often lose track of your main point.

Example of Incorrect Use: I wanted to check in regarding the project we discussed last week and see if you have any updates or need any help from my side before the meeting tomorrow.

Correct Version: I wanted to check in regarding the project we discussed last week. Do you have any updates, or do you need help from me before the meeting tomorrow?

Fix: Break long sentences into shorter ones. Keep one idea per sentence for clarity.

Mistake 2: Not Using Professional Greetings

A missing or casual greeting makes emails feel impolite or rushed.

Example of Incorrect Use: Hey, can you send the report?

Correct Version:

 Hello Mr. Smith,
Could you please send the report?

Fix: Start emails with a proper greeting: “Hello,” “Dear,” or “Hi [Name].”

Mistake 3: Forgetting Subject Lines or Using Clickbait Ones

Missing or unclear subject lines confuse recipients and reduce open rates.

Example of Incorrect Use: Subject: Important!

Correct Version: Subject: Request for Project Report by Friday

Fix: Use clear, concise, and specific subject lines. It helps the reader understand the email’s purpose immediately.

Mistake 4: Using Casual Language or Slang

Slang or casual words in formal emails look unprofessional.

Example of Incorrect Use: BTW, I’ll send the doc ASAP, no worries.

Correct Version: I will send the document as soon as possible. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Fix: Use full words and formal phrases in professional emails.

Mistake 5: Overusing “Reply All” Without Need

Replying to everyone unnecessarily clutters inboxes and frustrates recipients.

Example of Incorrect Use: Replying all to a question meant only for the manager.

Correct Version: Reply only to the relevant person.

Fix: Check recipients before hitting “Reply All.” Only include people who need the information.

Mistake 6: Not Checking Tone 

The tone in emails can be misread. Short or abrupt sentences may seem rude.

Example of Incorrect Use: Send the file now.

Correct Version: Could you please send the file at your earliest convenience?

Fix: Use polite phrases and full sentences. Reading emails aloud helps check tone.

Mistake 7: Typos in Names, Dates, or Important Details

Mistakes in key information make emails look careless and untrustworthy.

Example of Incorrect Use: Hello Jhon, the meeting is on 15th Augst.

Correct Version: Hello John, the meeting is on 15th August.

Fix: Double-check names, dates, and important details before sending.

Mistake 8: Using Abbreviations in Formal Emails

Texting shortcuts are informal and inappropriate in professional emails.

Example of Incorrect Use: Can u send the file asap?

Correct Version: Could you please send the file as soon as possible?

Fix: Always write full words and formal expressions.

Mistake 9: Forgetting Attachments (After Saying “See Attached”)

Mentioning attachments without including them looks careless.

Example of Incorrect Use: Please find the report attached. (No attachment included)

Correct Version: Please find the report attached.

Fix: Always attach the file before writing “see attached.” Double-check before sending.

Mistake 10: Not Signing Off Properly

Missing or casual sign-offs make emails seem incomplete or unprofessional.

Example of Incorrect Use:
Thanks,
(no name)

Correct Version:
Best regards,
Emily Johnson

Fix: Use proper sign-offs like “Best regards,” “Sincerely,” or “Thank you,” followed by your full name.

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Tips for Writing Error-Free Essays and Emails

Clear writing starts with careful attention, simple structure, and smart checking techniques. Students and professionals often miss tiny mistakes because they skim too fast or rely on memory. Following these tips keeps your writing sharp.

• Your eyes catch mistakes better than memory, so always proofread before sending or submitting.
  
• Your writing improves with tools, so use grammar checkers like Grammarly, but don’t rely on them entirely.
  
• Your reading helps a lot, so read essays or emails aloud to notice awkward sentences and hidden errors.
  
• Your error log is useful, so keep track of the mistakes you make often and watch yourself improve.
  
• Your time matters, so don’t rush and give yourself a few minutes to edit and refine each piece.
  
• Your vocabulary grows by learning, so swap weak words for precise, stronger alternatives.
  
• Your structure guides readers, so start sentences with the subject, keep ideas clear, and avoid clutter.

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This was all about Common Grammar Mistakes in Essays and Emails, with simple explanations, practical fixes, and easy tips to make your writing clear, professional, and mistake-free. For more such helpful guides on vocabulary, grammar, and writing skills, make sure to check out the Learn English page on Leverage Edu and stay updated!