Why You Need a Smarter Spelling and Grammar Checker

Not all grammar and spelling checkers are created in the same way. The majority of people just use the spelling and grammar checkers that come with their word processing programs. These checkers seem to catch most words that are spelled incorrectly, making it a standard for many people. However, this becomes a problem for people who really struggle with spelling and grammar, because their errors are often numerous, unusual and not recognized by most programs.

This doesn’t even begin to cover grammar checkers and the problems that come with most of them as well. For example, people with Dyslexia and other learning disabilities often do not spell or use grammar that is even close to the correct way. Because of their disabilities, they are not able to do this. So, while a typical spelling and grammar check would catch mistakes by most people, for people who have real difficulty with spelling and grammar, the corrections given by these programs make no sense and are often incorrect.

Another problem with Dyslexia spelling problems is the difficulty in choosing what word is right. Most spelling checkers will give you a list of words to choose from or they will automatically make the correction for you. When someone has extreme problems with spelling, his or her errors are so profound that most spelling checkers are not able to help them. It can really be a problem because if the grammar checker automatically makes the corrections, the words could be totally different from what is intended. For example, if someone was writing about having a “meeting” with some business associates and instead, spelled it “meating,” a spell and grammar check might automatically change the word to “mating.” This can cause embarrassing situations for all involved and also cause one to lose their confidence in writing.

Grammar checkers are not much better. English is a rather complicated language with many expressions that have various meanings. The misplacement of one word can make all the difference. Many grammar checkers show correct phrases as incorrect, suggest corrections that are also incorrect, and miss important errors.

It is confusing enough, but for those who struggle with Dyslexia spelling, it becomes an even bigger problem. Many people with Dyslexia and other learning disabilities will only become more frustrated if using an inadequate grammar and spelling checker. This becomes a huge problem for those who Dyslexia or other learning disabilities because they rely on this technology to help them compose letters, reports and other important documents.

This brings us to the fact that those with Dyslexia and other learning disabilities truly do not believe that they can write. They are usually looked down upon because those who are good in spelling and grammar cannot understand their problems. Finding a grammar and spelling checker that is above average is so necessary for them to do a good job in their writing.

Some basic technology must be incorporated within these checkers in order for them to be helpful. For example, if a spelling and grammar checker has the ability to speak the words that are typed, the writer will be able to hear the errors he or she has made. This way, they can hear the words and make corrections based on auditory perception rather than just visual perception. Another helpful aid with online checkers is for them to be able to pick up on the context of what is being written so that correct words will be suggested.

It’s not impossible to write with correct spelling and grammar with a little technological help. However, don’t be fooled into believing that all checkers, either online or through a program, are the same. Any person can have the confidence to write accurately, without errors, when using one of the smarter spelling and grammar checkers.