In an online Harris Poll <\/a>conducted from July 31 to August 4 of 2015, Dictionary.com reports that responders in the 18-34 year age group were bothered \u2013 more than any other age group – by spelling errors on social media.<\/p>\nThe study cited the types of misspellings, commonly confused words and grammar rules that bothered respondents of all ages the most.<\/p>\n
As a writer, it\u2019s nice to see the value of the written word hasn\u2019t diminished by the shortcuts and abbreviations most of us use today to communicate. In our world where cell phones and tablets are with us 24-7, responding to messages or posting updates has never been faster and easier. We are always reachable, and replying is as quick as a few finger strokes. With that kind of volume, speed, and accessibility we are bound to make mistakes.<\/p>\n
Mistakes make an impression about you and your business, so when you are composing or responding on the go to text messages, emails, or messages on social media, here are a few tips to keep in mind:<\/p>\n
\n- Slow down a little<\/strong>. Devoting a few extra seconds to composing a message isn\u2019t going to take up that much of your life. Editing will go faster if you haven\u2019t made any mistakes to begin with.<\/li>\n
- Proofread everything at least once before you send it.<\/strong> Even the shortest texts and emails. Be on the lookout for spelling errors, grammar errors, and words that auto correct guessed wrong. The Internet is full of embarrassing examples of auto correct\u2019s well-intended suggestions that changed the meaning of a message entirely.<\/li>\n
- Don\u2019t rely on spell check<\/strong>. It\u2019s a good first line of defense, but it\u2019s not foolproof.<\/li>\n
- Read each word individually<\/strong>. This will help you identify words you have left out because you couldn\u2019t type as fast as you were thinking.<\/li>\n
- Don\u2019t get comfortable<\/strong>. While texts and emails can\u2019t be retracted, most social media outlets allow you to edit your post or update. Don\u2019t slack off on composing or proofreading because of this. You may not catch the mistake before someone else does.<\/li>\n
- Be polite<\/strong>. Don\u2019t forget your manners when you\u2019re in a hurry. An abbreviated \u201cpls\u201d or \u201cthx\u201d for please and thanks goes a long way toward making an impression with your recipient.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Technology is a wonderful thing that allows us to be connected to each other and our customers more than ever before. The study proves that no matter what the age, most people still value accuracy when it comes to the English language. So get back to the basics. Proofread your work, even your shortest and fastest compositions, and make sure your message is received the way you intended it.<\/p>\n
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