Many of us can’t remember what we did before spellcheck came along. It makes life so much easier. Though some English Lit majors will undoubtedly grumble and stamp their feet at this, saying that this kind of software is the downfall of English itself – it is a fact that such grammar software is helpful, and that programs like autocorrect are helping people write better (if only in semi-hindsight).

Letters can get all mixed up without the help of a grammar checker.

For those of us who are looking for a way to become better writers, nothing will replace the keen eye and sharp pen of a human editor or proofreader. However, there are programs out there that can help you become better at writing English. Programs which not only check text for spelling errors, but also for grammatical ones and other mistakes.

There are only several grammar checkers available today which are worth mentioning, in my opinion. These are (in no particular order): Grammarly, WhiteSmoke, and Ginger’s Grammar Checker.

Each of these programs have certain abilities which set them apart from other grammar-checking software, as well as from one another. Essentially, these pieces of software can latch on to an existing word processing document – or any text box, really – and go through the text, highlighting the errors and suggesting corrections.

It’s like having an extra pair of eyes with you. Not human ones, though, which means that there is NO such thing as a perfect grammar checker. Not yet, anyway. Each of the three programs I mentioned have many advantages, and perhaps several disadvantages. It really depends on the writer and the written material.

Ginger is one of the best there is in the biz.

Grammar checking software is a wonderful tool for those studying English as a second language. It is also useful for students, educators, writers, journalists – anyone who would like to improve their English skills. These programs may help you identify your weaknesses, and strengthen your literary abilities.