These days more and more people are using AI writing tools and programs to streamline their work. While I don’t believe that AI can replace real human writers, some applications can be used to support your work as a writer. One of my favourites is Grammarly.
What is Grammarly?
Grammarly is an application that works as a writing assistant.
It reviews your spelling, grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure and provides you with suggested edits. It can even check for plagiarism!
The platform is beta testing integration with additional platforms, so you can expect this to expand in the future if your favourites still need to be included.
Four Benefits of Using Grammarly
Easy to Use
One of the most amazing about this application is that it integrates seamlessly with most of your writing tools – Gmail, Facebook, LinkedIn, MS Word, etc. Furthermore, once you have installed it and approved access, there is nothing to re-open each time you write.
Real-Time Review
Grammarly provides suggestions for improvements as you write. You can review as you write (which can save you time in the long run) or once you have finished a page, paragraph, or section.
You are in Control
Grammarly’s edits are suggestions – you can review and decide what you want to accept or reject. Most of the time, the edits are accurate. However, there are instances where the program may misinterpret what you are trying to say or not be familiar with a specific subject, so it’s nice to have the opportunity to review.
Helps to Improve Your Writing
Grammarly doesn’t just suggest a replacement word; if you have the time (and the Premium version), you can review the explanation of the change, alternative words and phrasing, and feedback in four categories: correctness, clarity, engagement, and delivery.
The more you use Grammarly, the more familiar you will become with grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and tone, which will improve your writing.
Oh, I wrote a post about improving your writing skills, so if this is something you want to polish (beyond Grammarly), check it out here.
What are the Features? How much does it cost?
Grammarly offers both free and paid plans.
The free plan checks for basic spelling and grammar, provides suggestions to improve sentence structure, and even applies a tone detector to ensure your written work comes across the way you intend.
The Premium (paid) plan takes things to the next level. It offers sentence restructuring and more advanced suggestions related to tone, engagement (to keep your reader’s fluency, and formatting. This version also offers plagiarism detection, which is great if you work with other writers for your business.
In addition, there is a Business plan for teams, brands, and organizations.
The Premium version of Grammarly costs $20 per month (billed quarterly) or $144 if you pay for the entire year in advance (yearly options are almost always the best choice in my opinion)
If you want to improve your writing and make a small investment in your business, look into Grammarly. At the very least, try out the free version – what’s the downside?
I use the Premium version of Grammarly, which has improved my writing and my ability to manage the writers on my team.
If you want to take your writing to the next level or want book coaching or ghostwriting services, book a coffee chat with me, and let’s connect!
Use your voice, make an impact.
Catherine x
Email: catherine@catherinenikkel.com
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