How to learn from our mistakes

When we write or speak English, we may make all kinds of mistakes - spelling, grammar, or collocation. But we can learn from our mistakes. Then, how do we learn from them? My answers are as follows:

1. Reread what you wrote or recall what you said for possible mistakes. Be aware that you may have used some words or expressions incorrectly or inappropriately. We make mistakes even when we write a simple sentence or speak an easy word. English can be so tricky. It's not a breeze for learners to choose an appropriate word. If you realize mistakes may spoil communication and you are determined to spot the mistakes, you can reread or recall something you wrote or said. If you do so, chances are you'll find what you want to. Try to spot as many mistakes as possible. Your goal is to correct them and try to avoid making the same mistakes in the future.

2. Consult a dictionary or grammar book for a right answer. When you reread what you wrote or recall what you said, you may find something wrong or inappropriate, or you may be unsure whether you used a word correctly. You can consult a dictionary or a grammar book for the right answer to your question or doubt. A good dictionary or grammar book is absolutely useful and helpful. So always have a good dictionary and grammar books nearby in case you need to consult one. Personally, I usually consult 'Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English'.

3. Ask someone else to correct your English. The key is to find the right someone to correct you. It's desirable to find a native English teacher. I know many such teachers here are willing to help you.

What do you say?

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Comments

Expector Smith September 28, 2012 11:55

Yes, we should learn from our mistakes if we really want to improve our writing skills!
Chandra September 28, 2012 3:09

Ya, I agree. That's something that I want to point out on my very short blog. I bet that the people I refer to don't do such things. I think they know that "I" should be written in capital letter. Nevertheless, they ignore it. They don't care about this. They write in this honorable forum like they write SMS. They just want to express what on their mind or what they feel and they experience, get lots thumbs and comments.
Expector Smith June 15, 2011 23:25

I assume you mean 'proofreading'. Yes, sometimes we do fail to find the mistake before we publish it, even though we've proofread it. So, it's a good idea not to publish a blog immediately after you just finised it. You could reread it the next day or let somebody else read it for you. Hope you get it!
Afnan June 15, 2011 22:40

sometimes before I send a message I read it many many times and I say okay every thing look good. But after a few seconds from sending a message I find big mistakes and ask my self why I can not find it before sending the message.....
Nafis April 8, 2011 14:24

Very helpful tips. Thank you so much.
Expector Smith October 21, 2010 1:31

@Rabab: There are even native English teachers here. I'm sure they are more than willing to help learners to learn or improve English. Don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions.

@Grace: yes, you got it! Glad you found it useful/helpful.
Grace October 20, 2010 13:17

Hello Expector Smith,
I will take your useful tips to avoid possible mistakes when speaking or writing.
Thanks a lot.

Grace
Rabab October 18, 2010 12:38

Great tips thanks Expector- Smith, asking a native speaker is the favorable for me though, it was not always available for me, now after joining My EC I think this will change right?
Expector Smith October 13, 2010 7:28

@lamegogo: I'm glad you get it!

I usually reread what I write before posting it. But, at times, I haven't time to do so and I will spot some typos or other mistakes when I read the posted comment/writing. If I find big mistakes in it, I usually reedit the blog or delete the whole comment - I wouldn't let others learn my mistake!
lamegogo depari October 11, 2010 4:53

It's very useful for me Smith. My weakness is lazy to reread what I wrote. Therefore, many mistakes when I read after Posted. Usually, After post my blog and then I reread it and if I found the mistakes I directly click " EDIT POST" hehe...but I promise start now, I 'll reread and double check the mistakes before posting.

I grateful for you and Have a great Monday Smith. :D
*Lamegogo

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