Informal letter

a) Elige la frmula de saludo apropiada: Hello Paul, Hi Jane, Dear Stephen, To my

beloved, My dearest...
b) Cuida la estructura:
- En el primer prrafo se expresa brevemente la razn por la cual escribes (aceptar
una invitacin, contestar a su carta, disculparte...).
- En el cuerpo de la carta se desarrollan los temas en dos o tres prrafos, evita
presentar las ideas en un largo prrafo.
- En el prrafo final se concluye dando las gracias o pidiendo una pronta respuesta,
etc, dependiendo de la naturaleza de la carta.
c) Elige la frmula de despedida adecuada siempre acorde con la de saludo. Por
ejemplo, no uses Love o Yours si el destinatario no es de tu crculo ms ntimo.
Hay frmulas ms neutrales como: Best, All the best, Regards, Best regards, Best
wishes, o si la carta es semi-informal, Sincerely o incluso Faithfully.
d) No abuses del slang o de expresiones coloquiales, tampoco de las contracciones.
Podra afectar a la inteligibilidad y la coherencia del texto. Tambin habra que valorar
aqu el grado de confianza con tu interlocutor a la hora de utilizar ciertas expresiones.
506 Country Lane
North Baysville, CA 53286
July 16, 2007
Dear Susan,
It feels like such a long time since the last time I saw you. I know it's only been
several weeks since I saw you. So far my summer has been great!
I spend my all my weekends at the beach. I am getting a nice tan and you can no
longer say I am paler than you. I have been playing lots of volleyball, surfing and
building a nice collection of sea shells. Just this past weekend I took second place in a
sandcastle building contest!
On the weekdays I work. I drive an ice cream truck around and sell ice cream to the
kids. It is so cool. It is a combination of the two things I love most, ice cream and kids.
The pay isn't too great but I love the job so much.
I hope the summer's been going well for you too. There's only a month and a half
left in summer vacation and after that it's back to school. Would you like to meet up
some time before school starts?
Your friend,
Signature
P.S. John Austin says hi.

Hey Sis,
It was so wonderful to hear from you and to know that you have enjoyed your
honeymoon abroad. I am thrilled to share my own vacation experience with you, since I
know you, of all people, love to hear about travelling and unusual places. So, this time,
Casey and I went to Sri Lankaa magnificent island with incredible traditions and
ravishing nature.
To start with, going to Sri Lanka was never actually part of the plan. Our aim was Laos,
but my fiancs colleague just came back from Sri Lanka and literally talked us into
changing our plans. Well, I have to say we are very grateful, since this was, without any
exaggeration, the best vacation I have ever had. It was something between Thailand,
with its gorgeous culture and Goa, with its perfect beaches, but at the same time, Sri
Lanka was so different and unique that I shouldnt really compare it to anywhere else
Ive been.
The weather was another perfect aspect of our overall great vacation. It isnt too hot in
Sri Lanka this time of the yearjust comfortably warm and sunny most of the time, so
we could fully enjoy the beach and were also able to travel around the island a bit. The
nature in Sri Lanka is just so magical and virgin, it almost made me feel like a Mowgli
in the jungle. And guess what else I saw?! A real tea plantation, just like those we see in
Lipton commercials, only far more beautiful. I was also surprised to find out that they
only grow black tea on the island, but one of really nice quality. By the way, Ive got a
souvenir tea package waiting for you, so make sure to pick it up when you and John
come back from your honeymoon.
Well, babes, I gotta get going. I hope you and John enjoy the rest of your honeymoon
just as much as you have enjoyed it so far.
Casey and I will be waiting for both of you to come over for dinner once you get back
from your trip.
Love you Sis!
Yours,
Jen

December 12, 2004

To My Beloved Caitlyn,
You are always on my mind, I can't stop thinking about you. The first thoughts
when I wake, and the last thoughts before I go to sleep are of you. I am such a lucky guy
to have found such a wonderful woman. I miss you so much, it has been too long since
the last time I saw you.
Your smile is so beautiful and magical. Every time that I think of your smile it
lights me up inside. Even when I am having a really bad day, seeing you smile makes
me want to smile too and it makes me forget about the previous events of the day.
Caitlyn, you must be the most caring person on earth. You seem to have an
unlimited amount of patience and kindness. Every time I make a mistake you are right

there to support me. The time that you drove 300 miles just to take care of my sick
mother when I was away is just one example of your big heart.
I have had such a great time with you no matter what we are doing. As long as you
are around, even doing the most mundane activity is fun. I hope that we'll see each other
everyday when I come back, I want to spend as much time with you as possible. I miss
you so much.
Love always,
Signature
Notas de agradecimiento
Hi Aunt Kelly!
Thanks for the new bike you bought me for my birthday; it's just what I wanted. The
color red fits the bike well! It is my favorite color. I plan on riding the bike around my
neighborhood everday right after school. I look forward to seeing you soon! Thanks
again for the bike.
Love,
Signature
Apology Letter (Personal)
68 Pine Zaggat Lane
Hampervile, NE 25385
January 5, 2005
Dear Jolene,
I am sorry about forgetting about our lunch date. It was completely my fault; I was
so busy at work that it must have slipped my mind. How about I treat you to lunch next
Wednesday at the new Italian restaurant Julie's at 12:30PM? I have marked this date in
my planner so I will not forget about it. I'd just like to apologize again for missing the
lunch date.
Your friend,
Signature
Invitation Letter (Personal)
97 Fir Crescent
Denver, CO 80409
December 17, 2008
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Johnson,
As the parents of the bride, I would like to take this opportunity to invite you to the
wedding of our daughter, Sandra Green to her fianc, Adam Locke. On this joyous
occasion, we wish to share the day with our closest friends and family members.

Children grow faster than any of us can imagine, the time is upon us to watch our child
grow and flourish into a new stage of their life. He proposed while the two of them were
on vacation, she happily accepted and now they are to be married.
The formal event will be located at the Fire Lake Golf and Country Club on the fifteenth
of August at three o'clock, two thousand and nine.
Please RSVP by the fifteenth of June to ensure attendance.
We hope to see you there to enjoy this special day with friends and family.
Sincerely yours,
Signatures

Apologising
1. Sorry.
2. I'm (so / very / terribly) sorry.
3. Ever so sorry.
4. How stupid / careless / thoughtless of me.
5. Pardon (me)
6. That's my fault.
7. Sorry. It was all my fault.
8. Please excuse my (ignorance)
9. Please don't be mad at me.
10. Please accept our (sincerest) apologies.

How To Use These Phrases In Your English

1. Phrase 1 is a general short apology. We use this when we bump into people on
the street. At other times, it sounds too weak.
2. In phrase 2, we use 'so', 'very' and 'terribly' to make the meaning stronger.
'Terribly' is the strongest. If we use one of the words in brackets, it is stressed.
3. Phrase 3 is quite formal but it's a stronger apology than just 'sorry'.
4. We use phrase 4 to criticise ourselves and the mistake that we have just made.
5. We use phrases 6 and 7 to take all the responsibility for what happened. Phrase 7
is a little stronger.
6. We use phrase 8 to apologise for our lack of knowledge or ability. We can
replace the word in brackets with other nouns, e.g. carelessness, forgetfulness.
7. Phrase 9 is asking the other person not to get angry. The tone is quite informal.
8. Phrase 10 is often used in formal letters. The word 'sincerest' makes the apology
very strong and very formal.
Thanking phrases
1. Thanks.
2. Cheers.
3. Thank you very much.
4. I really appreciate it.
5. You've made my day.
6. How thoughtful.
7. You shouldn't have.
8. That's so kind of you.
9. I am most grateful.
10. We would like to express our gratitude.

How To Use These Phrases In Your English

1. Phrases 1 and 2 are fairly informal. People often say them without really
thinking about it. We use them when somebody does something small to help
you.
2. Phrases 3 and 4 are more formal. We use these when somebody has done
something quite large or important to help you.
3. We use phrase 6 when somebody gives you a present. We are saying thank you
to the other person for thinking about you and deciding to give a present.
4. Phrase 7 is also for receiving a present. You are saying that the other person is
too generous. It does NOT mean that the person speaking is angry or annoyed.

5. Phrases 9 and 10 are more formal. Phrase 10 is especially formal and is only
used in business letters and formal speeches.
Phrases for Inviting People
Informal Phrases
Why don't we + verb?
I'm buying.
My treat.
It's on me.
Let's + verb
Why don't we go out for dinner? I'm buying.
Let's get a hamburger. My treat.
Formal Phrases
Would you like to + verb?
I'd like to ask you to + verb
It would be my pleasure if you would + verb
May I have the honor of your + verbing?
I'd like to ask you to attend the open ceremonies next week.
May we have the honor of your presence at dinner on Friday?
Inviting people to join you for dinner, social events, or other occasions is usually done
using 'would like' to indicate the invitation. This form can be used for both formal and
informal invitations. Remember that 'would you like ...' is always followed by the
infinitive form of the verb (to do).
Making Suggestions
We make suggestions when deciding what to do with our friends, or giving them advice
on what they might do in a certain situation. Imagine that you would like to go out for
an evening with some friends. Which suggestions would you make?
There are a number of formulas used when making suggestions in English. Here are
some of the most common:

Why don't you / we go to the movies tonight?

You / we could visit New York while you're / we're there.
Let's go to the travel agent's this afternoon to book our ticket.
What about asking your brother for help?
How about going to Hawaii for your vacation?
I suggest you / we take all the factors into consideration before we decide.

Construction

Formula
Why don't you / we go to a
movie?
We / You could go to a movie.
Let's go to a movie.
What about going to a movie?
How about going to a movie?

Verb Form
Use the base form of the verb in a question

Use the base form of the verb in a statement

Use the base form of the verb with 'let's'
Use the '-ing' form of the verb in a question
Use the '-ing' form of the verb in a question
Use suggest object verb in the base form in a
I suggest you / we go to a movie.
statement.

Offering Help
There are a number of formulas used when offering help in English. Here are some of
the most common:

May I help you?

Can I help you?
Are you looking for something?
Would you like some help?
Do you need some help?
What can I do for you today?

Construction
Formula

Verb Form

May I help you?

Use 'May I' or 'Can I' the base form of the verb in a statement.

Are you looking for

something?

Use 'Are you looking for' something OR anything in particular

OR specific object

Would you like some

help?

Use 'Would you like' some help OR some advice OR a

recommendation

Do you need some help?

Use 'Do you need' some help OR some advice OR a

recommendation

What can I do for you

today?

Use 'What can I do for' you, her, him, etc. today OR this
morning, this afternoon, this evening

Giving Warnings

Don't push so hard on that toy, or you might / will break it!
Watch out! Be careful!
Work hard otherwise you'll fail your exam.

Construction
Formula

Verb Form

Don't..., or you might

Use the imperative followed by might or will in a statement
/ will...
Watch out! Be
Careful

Use the imperative

Work hard, otherwise Use the imperative otherwise you will / might plus the base
you'll...
form of the verb to show consequenses

Stating a Preference

Would you like to see a film tonight?

I'd rather go dancing. How does that sound?
Why don't we have some chinese food?
Well, I'd prefer eating Italian. What do you think?
What do you think we should do?
If it were up to me, I'd go out for dinner.
What are we going to do today? The weather is awful!
I think we should go to a museum.
Why don't we go to a museum.
Let's go to a museum.
How about going to a museum.

Construction
Formula
I'd rather...
I'd prefer...
If it were up to me,
I'd...

Verb Form
Use the base form the verb without 'to' with 'rather'
Use the '-ing' form following the verb 'prefer'
Use the second conditional form followed by the base form of
the verb without 'to'
Use the base form the verb without 'to' following the modal
I think we should...
form 'should'
Why don't we...?
Use the base form of the verb in a question
Let's go ...
How about...?

Use the base form of the verb with 'let's'

Use the '-ing' form of the verb after a preposition - here 'about'

Disagreeing
Here are a number of useful phrases used when disagreeing or expressing another
opinion. Notice that a number of these expressions employ the first or second
conditional.

I wouldn't do that. I would...

But if we...
I'm afraid I have to disagree with you.
Don't get me wrong, ...
Even so, if...
Don't forget that...
Very true, but...

After you study these constructions, take the disagreeing quiz to check your
understanding.
Examples:
I wouldn't do that. I'd speak to the teacher first and see what she says.
But if we don't make those investments, we'll risk loosing market share.
Don't get me wrong, I just think we should look at some other options before making a
decision.
Even so, if we change classes this late, we might not get a passing grade.
Don't forget that we you still need to finish all your homework BEFORE you can do
that.
Very true, but we still need to get the garden in shape before building a new deck.

Contrasting Ideas
There are a number of formulas used when contrasting ideas in English. Here are some
of the most common:

We'd love to stay for dinner, but we have got to get going.
They decided to stay in the area, in spite of their problems with the local
residents.
Despite the difficulties of a long journey, Peter decided to visit India.
Getting a good job is hard work, however, most people eventually find one with
patience.
There were a number of people who came, although the hotels were not
equipped to handle them all.

Construction
Formula
main statement, but
contrasting statement

Example

Explanation
Use a comma or semi colon (;)
I'd really like to come to
with 'but'. 'But' is the most
the film, but I have to
common way to show
study tonight.
contrasting ideas.

main statement, in spite of

They continued on their
contrasting statement OR in
Use 'in spite of' plus a noun,
journey, in spite of the
spite of contrasting statement,
noun phrase or gerund
pouring rain.
main statement
main statement, despite
They continued on their
contrasting statement OR
Use 'despite' plus a noun,
journey, despite the
Despite contrasting
noun phrase or gerund
pouring rain.
statement, main statement
main statement, although
We wanted to buy a
contrasting statement OR
sports car, although we Use 'although' with a subject
Although contrasting
knew that fast cars can be and a verb.
statement, main statement
dangerous.

Making Complaints
There are a number of formulas used when complaining in English. It's important to
remember that a direct complaint or criticism in English can sound rude or aggressive.
It's best to mention a problem in an indirect manner. Here are some of the most
common:

I'm sorry to have to say this but...

I'm sorry to bother you, but...
Maybe you forgot to...
I think you might have forgotten to...
Excuse me if I'm out of line, but...
There may have been a misunderstanding about...
Don't get me wrong, but I think we should...

Construction
Formula
I'm sorry to have to say this but
I'm sorry to bother you, but
Maybe you forgot to
I think you might have forgotten to
Excuse me if I'm out of line, but
There may have been a misunderstanding
about
Don't get me wrong, but I think we should

Asking for Information

Could you tell me...?

Do you know...?

Example Finish
I think we need to take another approach.
I think you need to refine this layout.
include his name and number.
finish the report on time.
your work has not been adequate lately.
what I expected from you.
concentrate on the Smith account for the
moment.

Do you happen to know...?

I'd like to know...
Could you find out...?
I'm interested in...
I'm looking for..

These two forms are used for asking for information on the telephone:

I'm calling to find out...

I'm calling about..

Construction
Formula

Question Word Example Finish

Could you tell me

when

the next train leaves?

Do you know

how much

that vase costs?

Do you happen to know where

Tom lives?

I'd like to know

what

you think about the new project.

Could you tell me

when

the next train leaves?

Could you find out

when
she is going to arrive?
Formula
Gerund (-ing) Example Finish
I'm interested in buying
Formula

a boat
Noun

Example Finish

I'm looking for

Formula used only on the
telphone

information on holidays in Spain.

I'm calling to find out...

if

Question Word Example Finish

Formula used only on the telphone Noun

I'm calling about...

flight AZ098 will leave on time

today.
Example Finish

the offer published in today's newspaper.

Giving Advice
Giving advice refers to when we tell other people what we think could help them. The
most common way to give advice is by using the modal verb 'should'. There are also

other forms including, 'ought to' and 'had better' which are more formal. You can also
use the second conditional to give advice.
There are a number of formulas used when giving advice in English. Here are some of
the most common:

You should see a doctor.

I don't think you should work so hard.
You ought to work less.
You ought not to work so hard.
If I were you, I'd work less.
If I were in your position, I'd work less.
If I were in your shoes, I'd work less.
You had better work less.
You shouldn't work so hard.
Whatever you do, don't work so hard.

Construction
Formula

Verb Form

I don't think you should Use 'I don't think you should' the base form of the verb in a
work so hard.
statement.
You ought to work less. Use 'You ought to' the base form of the verb in a statement.
You ought not to work
so hard.

Use 'You ought not to' the base form of the verb in a statement.

If I were you,
If I were in your
Use 'If I were' 'you' OR 'in your position' OR 'your shoes' 'I
position,
wouldn't' OR 'I would' base form of the verb in a statement (A
If I were in your shoes, form of the conditional 2).
I wouldn't work so hard.
You had better work
less.

Use 'You had better' (you'd better) the base form of the verb in
a statement.

You shouldn't OR You Use 'You should' OR 'You shouldn't' the base form of the verb
should work less.
in a statement.
Whatever you do, don't
Use 'Whatever you do' the imperative.
work so hard.

Guessing

I'd say he's about ready to quit his job.

It might need some oil.

He could be in the garden.
It looks like a miniature motor.
Perhaps he needs some time off work.
Maybe they want to come and visit this summer.
It's difficult to say, but I'd guess that it's used for cleaning house.
I'm not really sure, but I think they enjoy hiking in the mountains.

Construction
Formula
I'd say he's about ready to quite his job.
It might need some oil.
He could be in the garden.
It looks like a miniature motor.
Perhaps he needs some time off work.
Maybe they want to come and visit this
summer.
It's difficult to say, but I'd guess that it's
used for cleaning house.
I'm not really sure, but I think they
enjoy hiking in the mountains.

Form
Use 'I'd say' an independent clause.
Use 'might' the base form of the verb.
Use 'could' the base form of the verb.
Use the verb 'look like' a noun.
Begin the sentence with 'perhaps'.
Begin the sentence with 'maybe'.
Use the phrase 'It's difficult to say, but I'd
guess' an independent clause.
Use the phrase 'I'm not really sure, but I
think' an independent clause.

Using Vague Expressions - Being Imprecise

There are about 600 people working in this company.

There are approximately 600 people working in this company.
There are a large number of students interested in taking his course.
Management predicts up to 50% growth for the coming year.
It's kind of a bottle opener which can also be used to peel vegetables.
It's the type of place you can go to relax for a week or so.
They're the sort of people that like going bowling on Saturday evenings.
It's difficult to say, but I'd guess that it's used for cleaning house.
I'm not really sure, but I think they enjoy hiking in the mountains.

Formula
There are about 600 people working
in this company.
There are approximately 600 people
working in this company.
There are a large number of students
interested in taking his course.
Management predicts up to 50%
growth for the coming year.
It's kind of a bottle opener which can
also be used to peel vegetables.

Form
Use 'about' + a numbered expression.
Use 'approximately' + a numbered expression.
Use 'a large number of' + a noun.
Use 'up to' + a noun.
Use 'kind of' + a noun.

It's the type of place you can go to

relax for a week or so.
They're the sort of people that like
going bowling on Saturday evenings.
It's difficult to say, but I'd guess that
it's used for cleaning house.

Use 'type of' + a noun. Use 'or so' at the end of a

sentence to express the meaning 'approximately'.
Use 'sort of' + a noun.
Use the phrase + 'It's difficult to say, but I'd
guess' an independent clause.

Saying 'No' Nicely

Would you like to see a film tonight?

I'm afraid I can't go out tonight. I've got a test tomorrow.
Why don't we have some Chinese food?
Sorry, but I don't particularly like Chinese food.
How about taking a nice walk?
I'd really rather not take a walk this afternoon.
Would you like to come to the museum with us?
Thank you, but it's not my idea of a fun afternoon out.
Let's go for a drive
Sorry, I'm not really fond of driving for the fun of it.
Why don't you stay the night?
That's very kind of you, but I really have to get back to the city.

NOTE: Notice how we often say 'thank you' in some way before refusing the offer.
When someone makes an offer it is polite to first thank that person and then say no,
often offering an excuse for not wanting or being able to do something. Just saying 'no'
is considered very rude behavior indeed!
Formula
I'm afraid I can't...
I don't particularly like...
I'd (really) rather not...
It's not my idea of...
I'm not (really) fond of...
Thank you (thank you for asking, thank
you very much, etc.) but, I have to...

Verb Form
Use the base form of the verb without 'to'
Use the '-ing' form of the verb with the
verb 'like' in the present simple.
Use the base form the verb without 'to'
with 'rather'
Use the '-ing' form following a preposition,
or a noun
Use the '-ing' form following a preposition,
or a noun
Use the base form the verb without 'to'
following the modal form 'have to do'

Demanding Explanations
Sometimes, things happen that we would like explained and we must demand
explanations. For example, if you have just bought a new computer and there is a
problem, but the shop assistant says that the guaranty does not cover the problem. There

are a number of formulas used when demanding explanations in English. Here are some
of the most common:

Can you tell me why...

I don't understand why...
Can you explain why..
Why is it that...
How come...
Does this mean...
Do you really expect me to believe...

Can you tell me why it has taken Use 'Can you tell me why' a full clause. An indirect
you so long to respond?
question requires '?'.
I don't understand why it has
Use 'I don't understand why' + a full clause. This is a
taken you so long to respond.
statement and does NOT require a question mark (?)
Can you explain why it has taken Use 'Can you explain why' + a full clause. An
you so long to respond?
indirect question requires a '?'.
Why is it that it has taken you so Use 'Why is it that' + a full clause. An indirect
long to respond?
question requires a '?'.
How come it has taken you so long Use 'How come' + a full clause. An indirect question
to respond?
requires a '?'.
Does this mean (that) it has taken Use 'Does this mean (that)' + a full clause. An
you so long to respond?
indirect question requires a '?'.
Do you expect me to belive you Use 'Do you (really) expect me to belive (that)' + a
weren't able to finish on time?
full clause. An indirect question requires a '?'.

Personal Descriptions
Hello, my name is James. I'm a programmer and I come from Chicago. I live in Seattle
with my wife Jennifer. We have two children and a dog. The dog is very funny. I work
at a computer company in the city. The company is very famous and successful. Our
daughter is named Anna and our Son is named Peter. She is four years old and he is
five. We like living and working in Seattle.
Tips for Writing a Personal Description about Yourself

Use 'come from' for the city or country where you were born. Use 'live' for the
city where you currently live.
Use the present simple tense to explain what you do every day.
Use 'have' or 'have got' to speak about your children, pets, etc.
Use 'a' the first time you mention something. For example, I live in a house.
Then use 'the' after the first time you write about it. For example, I live in a
house. The house is in Seattle.
Remember to use he, his, him for boys and men and she, her, her for girls and
women. Use 'our' when speaking about the whole family.
Use 'like doing' when speaking about hobbies.

Mary is my friend. She is a student at a college in our town. The college is very small.
She lives in an apartment in the center of town. She doesn't have a dog or a cat. She
studies every day and sometimes works in the evening at a small shop. The shop sells
gift items like postcards, games and other small items. She enjoys playing golf, tennis
and walking in the countryside.
Tips for Writing a Personal Description about a Friend

Remember to add 's' to the present simple tense when writing about other
people.
In the present simple tense, 'doesn't' takes the 's' in the negative form. Remember
to use 'doesn't + verb' in the negative.
Use sometimes, often, never, etc. before the main verb in a sentence.
Remember to use he, his, him for boys and men and she, her, her for girls and
women.
Use 'enjoys doing' when speaking about hobbies. It's okay to connect a few
verbs using commas, but place 'and' before the final verb in the list when
speaking about someone's hobbies. For example, She enjoys playing tennis,
swimming and riding horses.

Sentence Connectors and Sentences

* Opposition
Type of
Connector

Connector(s)

Coordinating
conjunction

but

Subordinating
conjunctions
Conjunctive
adverbs
Prepositional
phrases

Examples

High level positions are stressful at times, but

professionals can learn to manage their stress
levels.
Despite the fact that high level positions are
although, despite
stressful at times, professionals can learn to
the fact that
manage their stress levels.
High level positions are stressful at times;
however,
nevertheless, professionals can learn to manage
nevertheless
their stress levels.
In spite of the stressful nature of high level
despite, in spite of positions, professionals can learn to manage
their stress levels.

Addition
Type of
Connector
Coordinating
Conjunction

Connector(s)

Examples

and

High level positions are stressful at

times, and can be harmful to your
health.

Conjunctive
adverbs
Correlative
conjunctions
Prepositional
phrases

in addition, additionally,
furthermore, moreover,
also

High level positions are stressful at

times; furthermore, they can be harmful
to your health
Not only are high level positions
not only...but also
stressful at times, but they also can be
harmful to your health.
Along with being stressful, high level
in addition to, along with,
positions can also be harmful to your
as well as
health.

Cause / Effect
Type of
Connector

Connector(s)

Coordinating
conjunctions

for (cause), so
(effect)

Subordinating
conjunctions
Conjunctive
adverbs
Prepositions

Examples

Professionals can sometimes be extremely

impatient, for their positions are at times
rather stressful.
Since high level positions are at times rather
because, since
stressful, professionals can sometimes be
extremely impatient.
High level positions are at times rather
therefore, as a
stressful; therefore, professionals can
result, consequently
sometimes be extremely impatient.
Due to the stressful nature of high level
because of, due to,
positions, professionals can sometimes be
as a result of
extremely impatient.

Comparison
Type of Connector
Coordinating
Conjunction
Subordinating
conjunction
Conjunctive
adverbs

Connector(s)

Prepositions

like, similar to

and...too
just as
similarly, in
comparison

Examples
High level positions are stressful, and can be
harmful to your health too.
Just as high level positions are stressful, they
can be harmful to your health.
High level positions are stressful at times;
similarly, they can be harmful to your health.
Similar to other important professions, high
level business positions are stressful at times.

Contrast
Type of
Connector

Connector(s)

Coordinating
conjunction

but

Subordinating

whereas, while

Examples
High level positions are stressful at times, but the
financial rewards make these positions very
desirable indeed.
While high level positions are stressful at times,

conjunctions
Conjunctive
adverbs
Prepositions

the financial rewards make these positions very

desirable indeed.
High level positions are stressful at times; on the
in contrast, on the
other hand, the financial rewards make these
other hand
positions very desirable indeed.
Unlike the undesirable stress of high level
unlike
positions, the financial rewards make these
positions very desirable indeed.

Condition
Type of
Connector

Connector(s)

Subordinating
conjunctions

if, unless, only

if, even if

Conjunctive
adverb

otherwise

Examples
If you consider the financial rewards of high level
positions, the stressful nature of these positions
becomes less important.
You should remember the financial rewards of high
level positions; otherwise, you might find the
stressful nature of these positions too demanding.

Common Writing Mistakes

I've been guide to English as a Second Language at About.com since 1997. Over the
years, I've read many comments, short essays, paragraphs, etc. in a wide variety of
online forums. During this time, I've noticed some mistakes that tend to be made by
almost all English learners - and some native speakers - at some time or another. Most
of these mistakes can be easily avoided. It is my hope that this article will help you
identify these mistakes, and provide the information you need to stop you making these
mistakes writing online.
1. Use of Indefinite / Definite Articles (the, a, an)
Knowing when to use definite or indefinite articles can be difficult. Here are some of
the most important rules to remember when using definite and indefinite articles.

Indefinite articles are used (a, an) the first time something is presented in a
sentence.
Use indefinite articles with anything that is not specifically known to BOTH the
writer and the reader.
Related to the first two: Use a definite article when referring to something that
has already been mentioned.
Conversely, Use a definite article (the) when referring to an object which is
known to both the writer and the reader.
Use no definite or indefinite article (nothing, in other words) when speaking in
general using a plural with a countable noun, or the singular with a uncountable
noun.

Here are five examples of these mistakes, in order, for each type listed above.
I live in the apartment, close to the supermarket.
I'd like to go to the good restaurant.
I stayed in the hotel near the park. The hotel was very nice, and a park had some
wonderful paths.
Remember a presentation we went to last week?
The apples are generally very tasty in season.
Here are the sentences corrected:
I live in an apartment, close to a supermarket. (Note that I know the apartment and
supermarket, but you, the listener / reader, do not.)
I'd like to go to a good restaurant.
I stayed in a hotel near a park. The hotel was very nice, and the park had some
wonderful paths.
Remember the presentation we went to last week?
Apples are generally very tasty in season.
A, An and the are articles in English. A and An are indefinite articles and are used
when referring to something the first time. The is the definite article and is used to refer
to specific objects. Read this article to learn specific rules and examples of both types of
articles.
Read the following description
I am from Seattle, Washington. Seattle is a city in the United States. It is near the border
of Canada in the northwest corner of the USA. I live in a town called Olympia which is
on the Puget Sound. I live in a house in a street in the countryside. The street is called
"Bear Street" and the house is old - more than 100 years old! I am an English teacher at
a school in the center of the town. I like books and taking photographs. I usually have
lunch at school. I usually go home by car. We have all kinds of food in Olympia. I like
Italian food very much. Sometimes, I go to an Italian restaurant in Seattle. The
restaurant is called "Luigi's". Italian food is great!
Here are the rules for when to use "A, An or The":

a = indefinite article (not a specific object, one of a number of the same objects)
with consonants
She has a dog.
I work in a factory.
an = indefinite article (not a specific object, one of a number of the same
objects) with vowels (a,e,i,o,u)
Can I have an apple?
She is an English teacher.
the = definite article (a specific object that both the person speaking and the
listener know)
The car over there is fast.
The teacher is very good, isn't he?

The first time you speak of something use "a or an", the next time you repeat
that object use "the".
I live in a house. The house is quite old and has four bedrooms.
I ate in a Chinese restaurant. The restaurant was very good.
DO NOT use an article with countries, states, counties or provinces, lakes and
mountains except when the country is a collection of states such as "The United
States".
He lives in Washington near Mount Rainier.
They live in northern British Columbia.
Use an article with bodies of water, oceans and seas My country borders on the Pacific Ocean
DO NOT use an article when you are speaking about things in general
I like Russian tea.
She likes reading books.
DO NOT use an article when you are speaking about meals, places, and
transport
He has breakfast at home.
I go to university.
He comes to work by taxi.

http://esl.about.com/od/common_mistakes/a/Common-Writing-Mistakes.htm2.
Capitalize 'I' and National Adjectives / Nouns / Names of Languages and the First
Word of a New Sentence
The rules of capitalization in English are confusing. However, the most common
capitalization mistakes that are occur are with national adjectives, nouns and names of
languages. Remember these rules to help you avoid this type of capitalization mistake.

Capitalize 'I'
Capitalize nations, national nouns and adjectives - French, Russian, English,
Italy, Canadian, etc.
Capitalize the first letter of the first word in a new sentence or question
Do NOT capitalize common nouns, nouns are only capitalized if they are the
name of something
Capitalize proper names of people, institutions, festivals, etc.

Here is an example that applies to the last two points.

I go to university. (common noun -> university)
BUT
I go to the University of Texas. (noun used as proper name)
Here are five examples, in order, for each type of mistake listed above.
Jack comes from Ireland, but i come from the US.
I don't speak chinese, but I speak a little french.

where do you come from?

He bought a new Bicycle for his birthday.
Let's visit maria this afternoon.
Here are the sentences corrected:
Jack comes from Ireland, but I come from the US.
I don't speak Chinese, but I speak a little French.
Where do you come from?
He bought a new bicycle for his birthday.
Let's visit Maria this afternoon.
3. Slang and Texting Language
Many English learners, especially young English learners like to use slang and texting
language online. The idea behind this is good: learners want to show that they
understand and can use idiomatic language. However, using this sort of idiomatic
language can lead to many mistakes. The easiest way to deal with this problem is to no
use texting language or slang in a blog post, comment or other online written
communication. Texting is fine if you are texting, otherwise it should not be used. Any
type of longer written communication should not use slang. Slang is used in spoken
English, not in written communication.
4. Use of Punctuation
English learners sometimes have problems when placing punctuation marks. I often
receive e-mails, and see posts in which there are no spaces before or after punctuation
marks. The rule is simple: Place a punctuation mark (.,:;!?) immediately after the last
letter of a word followed by a space.
Here are some examples:
They visited Paris,London,Berlin and New York. I'd like to have some pasta , and a
steak .
Simple mistake, simple correction!
They visited Paris, London, Berlin and New York. I'd like to have some pasta, and a
steak.
5. Common Mistakes in English
I admit this is actually more than one mistake. However, there are a number of common
mistakes made in English. Make sure to visit the common mistakes in English section of
the site for more detailed information. Here are the top three common mistakes in
English that are often found in writing.

It's or Its - It's = it is / Its = possessive form. Remember when you see an
apostrophe (') there is a missing verb!
Then or Than - 'Than' is used in the comparative form (It's bigger than my
house!) 'Then' is used as a time expression (First you do this. Then you do that.)
Good or Well - 'Good' is the adjective form (That's a good story!) 'Well' is the
adverb form (He plays tennis well.)

Here are six examples, two for each in order, for each type of mistake listed above.
He attributed his success to it's appeal to children.
I think its time to discuss this question in more detail.
The government decided it would cost more money to change policy then to leave
current law stand.
She can first finish her homework, than go to practice.
How good do you speak German?
I think he's well public speaker.
Here are the sentences corrected:
He attributed his success to its appeal to children.
I think it's time to discuss this question in more detail.
The government decided it would cost more money to change policy than to leave
current law stand.
She can first finish her homework, then go to practice.
How well do you speak German?
I think he's good public speaker.

Parallel Structure
Common Writing Mistakes - Parallel Structure including Verb
Forms, Adjectives
One of the most common writing mistakes in more advanced English learners' writing is
parallel structure. Parallel structure refers to structures which are repeated because they
are connected by and, but, or, etc. This connecting words are referred to as coordinating
conjunctions. Here are a few examples of correct parallel structure:
Tom enjoys taking hikes, riding his bicycle and paragliding in his free time.
I went home, took a shower, changed my clothes and ate some lunch.
Here are the same two sentences using incorrect parallel structure:
Tom enjoys taking hikes, to ride his bicycle and paraglide in his free time.
I went home, take a shower, change my clothes and eat some lunch.

In both cases, there is a mistake in parallel structure. Notice how the verb forms in the
correct version of the two sentences use the same verb form. In the incorrect version of
the sentences, the verb forms are varied. Parallel structure refers to the same structure
repeating throughout a sentence. In other words, if the gerund form (ing form) of a verb
is used after one verb, all the listed verbs also take the gerund form.
Remember:
If you are listing verbs after a main verb, keep the verbs in the same form. (verb +
infinitive, verb + gerund)
He hopes to play, eat and get some rest.
She enjoys listening to music, reading novels and playing tennis.
He would like to have some lunch, study and then play the piano.
If you are conjugating a number of verbs to relate a story for the same subject, use the
same tense.
We went to church, bought some lunch, came home, ate and took a nap.
There are also other types of parallel structure mistakes. Which two types of mistakes in
parallel structure do you think are made in these sentences?
Bob drove carelessly, quickly and in a reckless manner.
Peter mentioned that he wanted to go home, that he needed a shower, and go to sleep.
... and the correct versions of the sentences:
Bob drove carelessly, quickly and recklessly.
Tom told me that he liked sports, that he enjoyed the theater, and that he ate oysters.
In the first sentence, adverbs are being used in a list and should continue, rather than
injecting an adjective.
carelessly, quickly, recklessly, ruthlessly, etc. RATHER THAN carelessly, quickly, and in
a reckless (adjective) manner.
In the second sentence, the dependent clauses are used 'that he wanted to go home... that
he needed a shower, etc.' and should continue in the same manner. Notice also that the
verb used in the third clause of this string of clauses is in the present tense, rather than
the past as the other clauses.
Here is another example of a similar adjective mistake in parallel structure. Which
adjective is incorrect? Why?
Jennifer appears to be tired, distracted and upsetting.
If you answered 'upsetting', you are correct. The first two adjectives 'tired' and
'distracted' refer to the state that effects Jennifer. In other words, she feels tired and
distracted. 'Upsetting' refers to the effect that she has on someone else.

Jennifer is upsetting to Jim.

In this case, the intent is that Jennifer appears tired, distracted AND upset. All three
adjectives refer to how she feels, rather than the effect she has on someone else.
Double Check for Mistakes in Parallel Structure
A good way to check for mistakes in parallel structure is to look for anything you list
using commas, or, and, etc. and make sure the list of equal elements are all in the same
form.
Parallel Structure Exercise
Identify and correct the mistakes in parallel structure in the following sentences.
Answers are provided on the following page.
1. Alex decided to get up early, go jogging, eat a healthy breakfast and got ready
for school.
2. I wish he would listen to his father, take his advice, and applied for a job.
3. James stopped smoking, drinking and to eat too much.
4. Jason invited Tim, her, they and Peter to the wedding.
5. He is an articulate, thoughtful, and meaningfully speaker.
6. Alexander did her homework, cleaned her room, but doesn't play the piano.
7. The politicians hope to clean up, and modernizing this city.
8. Eating healthy food, drinking lots of water and get exercise improves your
quality of life.
9. The teachers had graded the tests, completed the reports and meeting with
parents before they went on summer vacation.
10. Sheila misses seeing Tom, going on long walks with her friends, and played
football.