Common English mistakes in academic writing

In the realm of academic writing, students often find themselves repeating the same linguistic errors. These regular mistakes can detract from the clarity and effectiveness of their scholarly work. By looking at this collection of common mistakes, you can learn to sidestep these traps. Overcoming these mistakes not only refines your writing but also improves its academic quality and professionalism. So, let’s delve into the main mistakes students make and learn how to avoid them.

Spelling mistakes

Spellcheckers are useful in writing, but they don’t catch every mistake. Often, certain spelling mistakes slip past these tools, especially in detailed documents like academic theses and research papers. Knowing these commonly misspelled words and how to use them correctly can greatly enhance the precision and quality of your writing. Here, you’ll find a list of these words with their correct spellings and examples to help you enhance your accuracy in academic writing.

Incorrect	Correct	Example sentence
Acheive	Achieve	Researchers aim to achieve a deeper understanding of the genetic mechanisms involved in the process.
Adress	Address	The study aims to address the gap in knowledge regarding sustainable urban development.
Benifit	Benefit	The benefit of this approach is evident in its application to quantum computing studies.
Calender	Calendar	The academic calendar sets important deadlines for research grant submissions.
Concious	Conscious	Scholars must be conscious of ethical considerations in their experimental designs.
Definately	Definitely	This hypothesis definitely requires further testing under controlled conditions.
Dependant	Dependent	The outcome is dependent on a variety of environmental factors.
Disatisfied	Dissatisfied	The researcher was dissatisfied with the limitations of the current methodology.
Embarass	Embarrass	A thorough review was necessary to not embarrass the authors with overlooked errors.
Existance	Existence	The existence of multiple interpretations highlights the complexity of historical analysis.
Focussed	Focused	The study focused on the impact of climate change on Arctic ecosystems.
Goverment	Government	Government policies play a crucial role in public health initiatives.
Heteroskedesticity	Heteroskedasticity	The analysis took into account the heteroskedasticity of the data set.
Homogenus	Homogenous	The sample was homogenous, allowing for a controlled comparison of variables.
Imediate	Immediate	Immediate steps were taken to rectify the errors in data collection.
Independant	Independent	Independent variables were manipulated to observe the effect on the dependent variables.
Labratory	Laboratory	Laboratory conditions were strictly monitored during the experiment.
Liscense	License	The research was conducted under the license granted by the ethics committee.
Morgage	Mortgage	The study examined the effects of mortgage rates on the housing market.
Therefor	Therefore	he experiment yielded consistent results, therefore it is reasonable to accept the hypothesis.
Wether	Whether	The study aims to determine whether there is a significant relationship between sleep patterns and academic performance.
Wich	Which	The team debated which statistical approach would be most suitable for analyzing the data.

Precision in word selection

Selecting the right word is important in academic writing, as each word carries a specific meaning and tone. Common mistakes in word choice can lead to confusion and weaken the impact of your work. This section highlights these mistakes and explains why certain words are more appropriate in an academic context. By understanding these differences and reviewing the examples provided, you can refine your word selection to improve the clarity and effectiveness of your writing.

Incorrect	Correct	Why	Example sentence
Researches were conducted.	The research was conducted.	“Research” is an uncountable noun.	In-depth research was conducted to explore the link between diet and cognitive health.
She did good on the test.	She did well on the test.	Use “well” as an adverb to describe actions; “good” is an adjective describing nouns.	She performed exceptionally well on the test, achieving one of the highest scores.
The amount of variables may change.	The number of variables may change.	Use “number” with countable nouns (e.g., variables), and “amount” with uncountable nouns (e.g., air).	In the model, the number of variables influencing the outcome was found to be higher than initially thought.
The students that	The students who	Use “who” with people, and “that” with things.	The students who completed the advanced course demonstrated higher proficiency in the subject matter.
This data is compelling.	These data are compelling.	“Data” is a plural noun; use “these” and “are” instead of “this” and “is.”	These data are crucial for understanding the environmental trends over the past decade.
His advise was helpful.	His advice was helpful.	“Advice” is a noun meaning a suggestion; “advise” is a verb meaning to give advice.	His advice on the project was instrumental in shaping its successful outcome.
The company will ensure their success.	The company will ensure its success.	Use “its” for the possessive form of “it”; “their” is used for the plural possessive.	The company will ensure its success through strategic planning and innovation.
The principle reason for the study.	The principal reason for the study.	“Principal” means main or most important; the “principle” is a noun meaning a fundamental truth.	The principal reason for the study was to investigate the effects of climate change on marine biodiversity.

Correct capitalization in writing

Capitalization rules are key to keeping the formality and clarity in writing, particularly in academic and professional documents. Proper use of capital letters helps in differentiating between specific names and general terms, thereby improving the readability of your text. This section explores common capitalization mistakes and their corrections, attended by example sentences.

Incorrect	Correct	Example sentence
The United States Government	The United States government	In the study, policies from the United States government were analyzed for their effectiveness.
European Union Laws	European Union laws	The research focused on the impact of European Union laws on international trade.
Results Of The Interviews	Results of the Interviews	The methodology section, outlined in the ‘Results of the Interviews‘ section, details the approach used in conducting the interviews.
French revolution	French Revolution	The French Revolution had a significant impact on European politics.
in Chapter Four	in chapter four	The methodology is discussed in detail in chapter four of the thesis.

Effective use of adjectives

Adjectives play a vital role in enhancing the descriptive quality of writing, especially in academic contexts where precision is key. However, choosing the right adjective is important as a slight mistake can change the intended meaning of a sentence. This section focuses on common mistakes in the use of adjectives and demonstrates the correct usage with examples. Understanding these nuances will help you prepare clearer and more impactful sentences, thereby improving the overall quality of your paper.

Incorrect	Correct	Example sentence
Politic	Political	The political landscape significantly influences environmental policy-making.
Specially	Especially	The study was especially critical in understanding the regional impacts of the phenomenon.
Are both similar	Are similar	While the two methodologies are similar in approach, their outcomes differ significantly.
Quantitive	Quantitative	Quantitative methods were employed to assess the statistical significance of the findings.
So called…, factor based…	So-called…, factor-based…	The so-called breakthrough was actually the result of meticulous, factor-based analysis.
Empiric	Empirical	Empirical data is crucial in validating the hypotheses presented in the study.
Systematical	Systematic	Systematic investigation is essential for drawing accurate and reliable conclusions.

Conjunctions and connecting terms

Conjunctions and connecting terms are essential components of writing that connect ideas and sentences smoothly, ensuring coherence and flow. However, their misuse can lead to unclear or incorrect connections between thoughts. This section addresses common mistakes in the use of these terms and provides the correct forms, along with example sentences.

Incorrect	Correct	Example sentence
Despite of	Despite	Despite the adverse weather conditions, the fieldwork was completed successfully.
However …	However, …	However, the results from the latest experiment challenge this long-held assumption.
On the other hand,	Conversely,	The urban area showed an increase in population, while conversely, the rural regions experienced a decline.
First of all, firstly	First	First, a comprehensive review of the existing literature was conducted to establish a foundation for the study.
On account of	Due to	Due to the recent findings in the study, the research team has revised their initial hypothesis.
In addition of	In addition to	In addition to environmental factors, the study also considered economic impacts.

Accuracy in nouns and noun phrase usage

The correct use of nouns and noun phrases is essential in academic writing, as it directly affects the clarity and accuracy of the information presented. Mistakes in this area can lead to confusion and misinterpretation. This section highlights these common mistakes and offers clear corrections. By familiarizing yourself with these examples, you can avoid such mistakes and ensure your writing is precise and easily understood.

Incorrect	Correct	Example sentence	Why?
Two analysis	Two analyses	Of the two analyses conducted, the second provided more comprehensive insights.	“Analyses” is the plural of “analysis.”
Research conclusion	Research conclusions	The research conclusions underscored the need for further investigation into the phenomenon.	Conclusions” is the plural “conclusion,” indicating multiple findings or results.
A phenomena	A phenomenon / Phenomena	The observed phenomenon was unique to this particular ecological niche.	Phenomenon” is the singular, and “phenomena” is the plural.
Insights in	Insights into	The study provides critical insights into the underlying mechanisms of the biochemical process.	Into” is used to express movement towards or into something, appropriate for “insights.
One criteria	One criterion	While multiple criteria were evaluated, one criterion significantly influenced the final decision.	Criterion” is the singular of “criteria.
The peoples’ response	The people’s response	The survey was designed to gauge the people’s response to the new public policy initiatives.	People” is already plural; “peoples” would imply multiple distinct groups.
The professors opinions	The professors’ opinions	The paper was reviewed considering the professors’ opinions on contemporary economic theories.	The apostrophe indicates the possessive form of a plural noun (professors).

Number punctuation

Accurate punctuation in numerical expressions is key to keeping clarity in scholarly and professional writing. This part of the guide focuses on correcting common mistakes in the punctuation of numbers.

Incorrect	Correct	Example sentence
1000’s of participants	Thousands of participants	The study involved thousands of participants from various regions.
4.1.2023	4/1/2023	The data was collected on 4/1/2023 during the peak of the phenomenon.
5.000,50	5,000.50	The total cost of the equipment was $5,000.50.
1980’s	1980s	The technological advancements of the 1980s were groundbreaking.
3.5km	3.5 km	The distance between the two points was accurately measured as 3.5 km.

Understanding prepositions

Prepositions are essential elements in writing, showing relationships between words and clarifying sentence structure. However, mistakes in their use can lead to misunderstandings and unclear communication. This section illustrates common mistakes with prepositions and prepositional phrases, offering the correct usage to ensure sentence clarity.

Incorrect	Correct	Example sentence
Per	By	Results were analyzed by comparing different demographic groups.
Different to	Different from	The results of this study are different from those of previous research.
Besides, Next to	In addition to	In addition to conducting surveys, the researchers also performed field observations.
On behalf of	On the part of	There was a lack of interest on the part of the students in the subject matter.
From…till…	From…to…	The temperature range for the experiment was set from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius.
Agree on	Agree with	The committee members agree with the proposed changes.
Comply to	Comply with	The researchers must comply with the ethical guidelines.
Dependent to	Dependent on/upon	The outcome is dependent on the accuracy of the data collected.

Correct use of pronouns

Pronouns, when used properly, lend clearness and conciseness to writing. This section addresses common pronoun mistakes and provides correct usage examples.

Incorrect	Correct
A person should ensure their safety.	A person should ensure his or her safety.
Researchers should cite his or her sources.	Researchers should cite their sources.
If you read the study, you may be convinced.	If one reads the study, one may be convinced.

Quantifiers

Proper use of quantifiers is required for precise expression, especially in conveying amounts and quantities. This segment explains frequent quantifier mistakes and their correct usage.

Incorrect	Correct	Example sentence
Less people	Fewer people	Fewer people attended the event this year than last year.
Much students	Many students	Many students are participating in the international science fair.
A large amount of participants	A large number of participants	A large number of participants registered for the workshop.
A little of students	A few students	A few students opted to take the advanced course.
A small quantity of books	A few books	The library has a few books on this rare topic.
A lot of time	Much time, a great deal of time	The research team dedicated much time to analyzing the data.

Finalizing with verb and phrasal verb usage

In our final exploration of common English mistakes, we focus on verbs and phrasal verbs. This section demystifies common mistakes in their use, offering more suitable alternatives to refine your writing style.

Incorrect	Correct	Example sentence
Investigate on	Investigate	The committee will investigate the matter thoroughly.
Deal up with	Deal with	The manager must deal with the issue promptly.
Look forward for	Look forward to	The team looks forward to collaborating on this project.
Work out on	Work on / Work out	The engineer is working on a new design. / They worked out a solution to the problem.
Cut down of	Cut down on	We need to cut down on expenses to maintain our budget.
Make a photo	Take a photo	While exploring the city, she decided to take a photo of the historic landmarks she visited.
Divide in	Divide into	The report was divided into several sections to address each aspect of the study.

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Conclusion

Throughout this guide, we’ve navigated common mistakes in academic writing, covering everything from spelling to phrasal verbs. Each section highlighted key errors and provided corrections to improve clarity and professionalism in your work. Understanding and correcting these mistakes is vital for effectively communicating your ideas. Should you need further help, our platform offers specialized proofreading services to address these mistakes, ensuring your writing is clear and precise for your academic pursuits.