I’m often asked, “What are the most common errors you see people make when they write?” Here are the top three I’ve run across repeatedly this week.

Goof 1: Writing “it’s” when you really mean “its” (or vice versa)

Remember: The word “it’s” is a contraction for “it is.” And the word “its” is the possessive form of “it.” It’s really that simple!

Wrong: Turn the box on it’s side. (You would not say “it is” side.)
Right: Turn the box on its side (possessive form of “it”).

Wrong: I saw the movie, and it’s similarity to the book was amazing. (You would not say “it is” similarity.)
Right: I saw the movie, and its similarity to the book was amazing (possessive form of “it”).

Wrong: Its the right way to do things.
Right: It’s the right way to do things (the contraction for “it is”).

Goof 2: Joining two sentences with a comma

First, recognize when you have two sentences. You can join sentences with a semicolon, colon or conjunction.

Wrong: I like this, it is simple and to the point. (This is a run-on sentence.)
Right: I like this; it is simple and to the point.

Wrong: I am sure of one thing, you can’t get blood from a turnip. (This is a run-on sentence.)
Right: I am sure of one thing: You can’t get blood from a turnip.  (more…)