How I Learned Grammar
by Sondra C
My name is SondraC. I am a 70-year-old widow and a mother of three. I have five grandchildren and one great-granddaughter who is four. At the age of 63, I enrolled in college, intent on earning my degree. I graduated with honors.
I have been writing poetry and prose for the better part of my life. I rarely wrote articles, so my knowledge of proper grammar usage became vague. I had been writing “How to” articles for various sites on the Internet. It became boring and I needed a change.
My lifelong desire was to become a freelance writer. A friend of mine mentioned Textbroker. I immediately applied, and I was excited when I was accepted as a freelance writer.
At first it was a bit confusing. I did not know what format to use or how to write about a title. Moreover, I could not find a guide that gave me the information. I asked a few questions and learned how to write an article that would be accepted.
Although clients accepted all of my articles, I never was able to get a rating of more than 3 stars. I had not a clue what my problem was.
I began getting more than a hint when I started reading the editors’ comments about my writing. It did not take me long to realize that it was my poor grammar that was keeping me from getting the 4 stars. No matter how hard I tried, it appeared that my fate was sealed. The way things were going, it seemed that I was destined to stay at 3 stars. I got mad!
I got mad at the editors who consistently were rating my articles lower than I would have liked. I felt that I did not deserve the lower rating since I never had a client complain. I was upset with Christina, who insisted that the grammar had to be totally correct--down to the dots and dashes. Quite honestly, it upset me that the site demanded perfect grammar, even for lower paying articles. However, rules are rules and I had to obey them, whether I liked it or not.
I became extremely frustrated! If I couldn’t advance, how was I going to make more money? I felt as if I were caught in a trap. Frankly speaking, I was seriously considering leaving. In fact, I took a few days off. However, I began to realize that I missed the writing, the editors and the friendly atmosphere of the site, and I returned to write.
But I returned with a different attitude. I would not allow the improper grammar to upset me. I enjoyed writing and earning money. Therefore, I decided to learn how, when and where to apply a comma. This is exactly how I did it.
I read the Textbroker Blog. There are many articles written by other writers and editors that helped me learn. I followed by searching the Internet for sites that not only taught grammar but also contained grammar questions and answers. I was determined to learn!
These are some of the sites that helped me the most.
Purdue's OWL Exercises
UNC's Comma Sheet
Punctuation Made Simple: The Semi-Colon
Grammar Book Tests
Take all the Grammar Book tests. This is the best way to learn. I kept taking the tests over and over until I get 100% and learned how, where and why to apply a comma to the articles I wrote.
I printed any information I felt would help me to learn.
I stapled them according to content and placed them on my desktop for easy access.
I referred to them as I edited. I read them when I had my morning coffee or any time during the day.
I did not allow them to just sit on the desk!
I added notes to the papers when I found further helpful information.
Then, I did the following:
1. Learned the FANBOYS rules by heart! This was my first step to achieving 4 stars. I studied them in my sleep. Knowing the rules and how and when to apply them is the first step to moving up.
2. Took the grammar tests daily until I no longer made as many errors.
3. Searched for sites that taught grammar to first-grade children. The rules were explained in a childlike manner, but they were easier to learn.
4. Did not edit as I wrote. I found it easier to write a rough draft first and then edit. Most of the time, I rewrote an article a few times before submitting it.
5. Never rushed while writing an article. If I only wrote one article a day--so be it. I would write more after I learned how to edit.
I stopped griping and getting mad. I made up my mind to learn, and that’s what did it! I was not shy about asking Christina, Keira, or any other editor a question or two about my placement of a comma or other grammatical questions. No one ever refused. It was not long before I gained confidence, and I found editing to be much easier.
I placed my data papers on top of my desk. I wrote an article and then edited it according to the grammar data on each page of paper. No more guessing! Sure, It took a bit longer to submit the article. I must admit that it was hard work. However, in the long run, it was worth the effort. I got a 4 star! I was elated. Sadly, this feeling was short lived.
The next set of articles I submitted were again rated with 3 stars. Where did I go wrong?
I took a new direction. I began to read magazine articles, newspaper reviews and well-written articles from sites like About.com and other sites of that level. I wanted to learn where they placed a comma and how they wrote their sentences.
Suddenly, it occurred to me. I was learning “how” without understanding “why.” This was what was hindering me from grasping the editing concept. Although I had studied, I had to make certain that I was placing a comma where it belonged while I was still writing.
Getting editing corrections two weeks after submitting an article was too late to help me. I needed someone I could question before submitting the article. I needed a one-on-one, student-teacher type relationship.
I asked the Textbroker editors for help. When I was in doubt about where to place the comma, I sent email out to an editor. If I was correct, I received a congratulations. If I was wrong, I received an explanation of the changes I had to make to correct it.
It worked like a charm!
Before long, everything I had studied about grammar began to fall into place. I finally understood where and when to put a comma. I was on my way to getting 4 stars, and I felt it.
This was the start of my getting 4 stars on my articles. I thanked the editors for their help and found editing became easier.
However, I still edit carefully and slowly. It would be too easy to start getting 3 stars again.
I now receive 4 stars on all of my articles, which makes me extremely happy. I find that I can read many Internet articles and recognize when the writer has made grammar errors. They stick out like a sore thumb now, where before, they looked as if they were well-written.
I have more confidence in my writing. The articles are easier to write, and I write them much faster than before I had learned how to use grammar. It is an amazing change in my writing ability. I even wrote a letter to President Obama regarding a policy that he is considering that I do not approve of.
Because I worked hard and had the proper help when needed, I learned how to use proper grammar.
P.S.
Always check and double check your spelling by using a spelling checker.
It is a good idea to use a thesaurus checker. This keeps you from using the same words over and over again.
Full Disclosure: Sondra C is a freelance writer. Textbroker is one of her clients and she receives payment based on the word count of her work.
posted on 07/16/2010 - 02.00 | authors | comments: 68
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Congratulations, Sondra. You should be very proud of yourself!
The ones who get ahead in life are the ones who never give up. You didn't give up and you are now a 4 star. I don't doubt that you will one day become a 5 star with Textbroker.added by: author Micsan07 on 07/16/2010 - 08.18
Congratulations Sandra. Quick question: how many articles do you usually write per day?added by: author VeronicaM on 07/16/2010 - 08.39
I have already started the path of learning how to become a a 5 star writer. However, I have not had the time to read it. I have other writing obligations that also need my attention and a cat to care for.
I have always been competitive with myself. When I do something I have to be the best. When i returned to college at the age of 63 my goal was to get "A" and not merely to pass. I did not get an "A" grade on all of my courses, but the grades were high enough for me to graduate with honors.
I cannot tell you how many articles I write in a day. Some days more, some days less and some days none. In all honesty, I write for quality and not quantity. I am more interested in maintaining my 4 rating than writing a lot of articles and getting a grade 3 again-heaven forbid.;)
In all honesty, it takes me longer to edit the article than to write it. I strive to maintain my 4 grade. It took me along time to get it and faster to lose it.
added by: author SondraC on 07/16/2010 - 09.17
This is an awesome blog and so very inspiring! I think I have a lot of work (and studying!) to do before I can step up to 4 stars like you did. :-)added by: author K.Mayer on 07/16/2010 - 09.31
Hi, Sondra
Congratulations on jobs well done! Lifelong learning is good for everyone.
Add to your websites of interest the thread about Textbroker at www.nojobformom.com. There are almost 800 entries that cover most aspects of writing for Textbroker. You will not learn grammar there, but there is a wonderful group of writers who share their Textbroker experiences in a positive manner.
If you want to have some fun and learn something new, choose an article topic that is new to you. As you research the topic, you may find more than you expected. I recently experienced this with a direct order client who is putting together a website about a new vitamin-like substance called Coenzyme Q10. It seems to be a cure all and energy booster. I finally decided to try it after reading all about it. I am giving it a 30 day test!
You never know what you can learn while writing for Textbroker clients. It is a great opportunity for those who are patient.added by: author A-002484 on 07/16/2010 - 09.50
Congratulations Sandra. You really do have the determination it takes to get the job done.added by: author A-019794 on 07/16/2010 - 10.09
Sondra ...
Thanks for sharing about your journey. You are an inspiration and an example of what we can all achieve when we're willing to work for it!
added by: author Gabriella on 07/16/2010 - 10.09
I have some of these problems with grammar myself. Thank you for your eye opening article and the very valuable links.
Congratulations on achieving your 4 star status as well,
Paulaadded by: author A-026617 on 07/16/2010 - 10.52
Congrats on the 4 star rating. I had the same issue when I first started here. Seemed the editors nitpicked and I didn't care for it. Not at the level of pay. I decided early on after about a dozen accepted articles that I was better off eliminating the middle man. I went into business for myself over 8 months ago and I'm prospering. Kudos to those who can gain something from here.added by: author A-029296 on 07/16/2010 - 11.29
Wow! What an inspiration you are. I, too, struggle as I have tried to progress to level 5 for months now and I just haven't made it yet. I have also struggled with commas and now I force myself to know the rule behind every comma I place. Christina has been a big help to me as well and I know that the day I make it to level 5 will be sweet indeed!
I'm glad you didn't quit. Your perseverance not only helped you but will help all of us as well. Congratulations on your accomplishments and thank you for the inspiration.added by: author eLogan on 07/17/2010 - 12.35
Wow. That is awesome, Sondra.
I LOVED reading your story.
added by: author Synthia on 07/17/2010 - 12.40
Thank you so much for your valuable information. You are an inspiration! I have just started with Textbroker and I really love the challenging work environment. Congratulations on your 4 star rating.added by: author A-039703 on 07/17/2010 - 01.04
Congratulations, Sondra! I remember how ecstatic I felt when I was bumped from a 3 to a 4. I agree with you that the best advice is to study tutorials and pay close attention to the suggestions from Textbroker editors. Good luck in your writing and continued success! :)added by: author A-037804 on 07/17/2010 - 01.05
Sondra, you go, girl! Oh, yeah! Congratulations!
"I find that I can read many Internet articles and recognize when the writer has made grammar errors. They stick out like a sore thumb now, where before, they looked as if they were well-written."
Just gotta love that part!
added by: author A-035348 on 07/17/2010 - 01.07
Congratulations Sondra. Thank you for the tips you gave. You are an inspiration...:)added by: author A-045186 on 07/17/2010 - 02.14
Kudos Sondra! Thank you for sharing your experience with all of us.added by: author SPrice on 07/17/2010 - 08.02
Congrats Sondra, I was also just upgraded to a level 4. It is a feeling of elation and accomplishment. I have had no writing experience since joining TB. I love it here. I just hope I can keep my rating. I will study the links you provided. I still have problems with the correct placement of commas. Thanks.added by: author blackdog on 07/17/2010 - 08.02
Thanks Sondra for sharing your progress to success. I have nothing to complain about after reading your story. You are a true inspiration because you explained in detail how you achieved your success. Through your writing I felt every pain staking move you made and it showed me that I can accomplish it too. Wow, 70 years old and here I am only in my 40s complaining about how it's too hard--no more, thanks to you.
Pamadded by: author A-025682 on 07/17/2010 - 09.58
One of the great things about the internet is that if you need instruction on just about anything at all, you can find it. Not only can you find it, but you can get it on a level you can understand, as Sondra said. If it takes an elementary school level to help us "get it," who cares? I had to go look up a comma website, too, as I was always getting dinged for incorrect usage. What I thought was correct in many instances, was not. There is some leeway in comma usage.
Many times we get mad, and get our egos all in a huff, before we say, "OK, I need to get out of my own way, and learn this. Once you view the learning process as a positive thing that will help you, it feels better. I doesn't matter how much education or experience you have had in anything. Most of us are not perfect grammarians, and never will be. It really is OK. We can still be writers, and we will be richer for the experience. Congratulations, Sondra!added by: author A-042184 on 07/17/2010 - 10.11
Nice article. However, desipite correct grammar and spelling, you still need to proof more carefully. Re-read your blog to see if you can find the proofing error. If you cannot, feel free to email me.added by: author A-011980 on 07/17/2010 - 10.18
Congrats Sondra, I too hope to make that leap from 3 to 4. I'm going to take your suggestions to heart and hopefully will make that leap someday!added by: author A-032131 on 07/17/2010 - 10.28
I hope that I'm as motivated and persistent as you are when I'm your age!added by: author meaghan on 07/17/2010 - 10.55
That's a very impressive PMA (Positive Mental Attitude) you possess, Sondra. Thanks for the links for further reference.
I would like to offer a fun book regarding punctuation called, "Eats, Shoots, Leaves" by Lynne Truss. She is British, but I found no problem with applying the techniques to 'American' English. Should be able to get it at your library - and of course at Amazon.added by: author GratefulAl on 07/17/2010 - 10.56
Thanks, Sondra, for your well-written article. Congratulations on your four star rating. I just received my first four star for an article that I wrote. What a thrill.
But I want the complete four star rating. And then nothing will stop me from being a five star writer.
I appreciate your websites and tips. I will use all of them. Recently I found Open Course Ware from major universities like MIT that offer free writing courses online. The one I completed on writing an essay was excellent. Actually, essays and articles have many similarities.
Almost anything is achievable if you perservere.
added by: author StJohn on 07/17/2010 - 11.09
Thank you Sondra for inspiring me this morning. I too am a level 3, striving to get my work to a 4 star status. I will follow your suggestions to the letter, and I hope before too much time has passed I will be where you are now.
Congratulations!added by: author A-026097 on 07/17/2010 - 11.20
Congrats to you! You worked hard and your story is inspirtational.added by: author A-010830 on 07/17/2010 - 12.03
Good for you, Sondra. Thanks for sharing your experience. Writing IS so much more than being creative.
Most of us who freelance find that writing is the easy part. It's the research, editing, and reviewing styles and guidelines of the various sites we write for that takes up the time. We often need to be reminded to go back to our favorite grammar book and review, because the busier we are, the more corners we tend to cut.
The feedback and rating system keeps us on our toes. I find it more embarrassing to read an article that I've written that has been published with a glaring mistake that I have no way of fixing than I do when I get constructive feedback before the article goes live.
Keep writing.added by: author A-003627 on 07/17/2010 - 12.49
Sondra,there's no question that grammatical correctness is important; however, one other fact is of equal necessity, i.e., knowledge re: the subject.
I often wonder if those who critique the writing are aware of what the writer is actually saying, specifically in those areas in which they (critics) may have little, if any, experience.
I say this, because having written opinions for litigation for more than 30 years, all of which have helped earn my clients millions of dollars, as well as having been an associate editor of several magazines, my receiving the "4" rating is extremely rare. The time it takes to earn a couple of dollars from Textbroker submissions is more of an exercise in practice than anything else, which, I imagine , is true of all content assignments, which, of course, differ greatly from contract writing, et. al.
One last point - it's good to see that you are writing, and encouraging others to write well. In this era of texting and IM, as well as greatly reduced letter writing, I'm afraid that the soul of the written word is disappearing.
Joe C.
added by: author A-034702 on 07/17/2010 - 01.42
Congratulations Sondra! Your determination and perseverance are at least as important in receiving your four-star rating as your grammatical improvements. You are right about one thing--the Textbroker editors are awesome! They were very helpful to me when I started out and also helped me get to four-star status through their patience suggestions and feedback. Keep up the great work!
Anthony S.added by: author A-030082 on 07/17/2010 - 02.22
I'm new to textbroker and am still figuring it out. You mentioned that you emailed the editors. How did you get their email address? I've submitted my first article and am waiting to see if any revisions need to be made. I'm just curious for future reference.
Also, as you have been doing this a while you might be able to answer this question. What do you do if the job listed is completely unclear. For example, the title says "apts rent" and the description says write about the title. ??? Do they want information on renting in general, why to rent, why not to rent, where to rent??? How can you get more clarification? Or do you just pass on the job? Thanks!added by: author ejsuthe on 07/17/2010 - 02.37
First let me tell you that all of your letters and thoughts brought tears to my eyes. I had never imagined that there would ever that I would be so inspiring to so many people, from all over this remarkable country, the USA. I feel as if I just adopted a large family, here is a secret few know, I always wished I had a large family - and I guess I just found one. Thank you all for making me so happy. I would be happy to help any one of you if I can. Just ask Christina how you could communicate with me.
I thank you for your kind words and messages.I feel as if I just gained a great deal of sons and daughters.
I would like to respond to the one message that complained that I did not proof the blog, and then led me to the error. First of all, I did not proof the blog, the editors did. Secondly, it was obvious that the error was due to a copy and paste mistake and not due to the writing.
May I also say to that person, I have lived long enough to know that life has its ups and downs. It is better to look for the good in people and circumstances, than to seek out the bad and the errors. It will make you happier, and will help you to make more friends. Nothing in life is all black and white. Sometimes it is gray.
To the new author who asked me a question. First, let me tell you have come to the best site on the Internet to write and get paid, bar none. I am not getting paid to say this - it is my honest belief. I have written on many sites so I speak from experience. Many of us have tales of woe to tell about other writing sites. So my advice to you is to write carefully, think out what you want to write about, how you want to write it, and what you want to say. Think and plan and then write. Then go over it and write it better. Then, edit, edit and edit again. You will find it take a lot of editing until you are free of mistakes.
I want to share the advice that Keira gave me many times. After editing and before submitting an article, read it out loud to yourself. You will be amazed at how many times you see an 'a', or 'on' word left out that you missed when you read it. It takes a little longer to submit the article, but the end result will be perfection. Seeing 'Excellent" from a client brings happiness to the writer and will move you to a 4 rating in no time.
I did not actually email the editors using 'email'. Write to them on the Textmaster site where it says to Contact the Editors.
As for the requests of the clients? I agree, many do not give thought to how they want their article to be written. The only thing you can do is to send a message to the client and ask them to clarify their request. After sending the client a message, wait for a response. Many times, they take to long to wait, especially if it has to be written in one day. I return the article and claim another.
Textbroker does not communicate with the clients - they just make sure that the clients pay.
My best advice to all who are new to writing, is to only 'claim' titles with topics you know about. It is easier and faster to write about past experiences than to research the topic and attempt to make sense out of it.
added by: author SondraC on 07/17/2010 - 05.53
Thank you for sharing your insight! You have given me hope for improving my scores.added by: author A-025897 on 07/17/2010 - 07.29
Congrats on gaining a Level 4 rating! You have inspired me to start logging in and writing again on this site. Thank you!added by: author MStaggBlgr on 07/17/2010 - 07.33
My response to Joe C..
You are so right. It seems that the heart and soul is going out of writing, just as being polite seems to be out of style. The little things that count, like holding a door open for someone and not slamming it in their fact, or not taking the time to leave the house, go to the store and take the time to pick out a birthday card with sincere sentiments on is also lost. How easy it has become, to search for a free card on the Internet to send. It has no special meaning, and the sender has not gone out of his way to select it. To me the true meaning is gone.
Writing is losing it's beauty. Look at all of the junk books for sale. The classics have made a comeback in the book stores, but I hardly see a dent in the stack to show that someone has bought it.
Nothing that was beauty, grace, politeness, or gratitude is slowly leaving. Books now do not have to be printed or held lovingly in the hands. No longer do you have to make sure you wash your hands before touching a page. Now you have books that are not bound, the pages do not have to be turned, just a motion of hand does it all for you in the Kindle books and others that follow.
added by: author SondraC on 07/17/2010 - 07.48
Thank you for this advice. It's helpful and appreciated! I am new to this process and it does help when you go back to the basics with grammar etc. I myself write and then edit after. I also read out loud several times before I submit the article. That helps!
Thanks again!
added by: author Miko on 07/17/2010 - 10.57
I am proud of you for your accomplishments and determination. I thank you for the excellent resources you have shared. Keep up the good work.added by: author Tina V. on 07/18/2010 - 12.18
@Sondra -
I really enjoyed your blog post. I'm extremely appreciative of your wisdom through your years and as I've gotten older I've wished that I had spent more time listening to the words of my parents, grandparents and great-grandparents. The statement that "youth is wasted on the young" is true in so many instances.
It does sadden me that you believe writing is losing its beauty. I'm a relatively voracious reader and I don't see that. My wife is a librarian and through her job she coaches young people on which books they might want to try and she promotes reading as much as she possibly can. We both see tools such as the iPad and Kindle as extensions of the written word. To many people, young and old, there is still nothing like holding a book in your hand or smelling the aroma of aged paper or even newly printed work. I'm hopeful that the new technologies will inspire new generations of readers.
While there are a lot of junk books for sale, you might also consider spending your summer reading through the William Allen White Award book list for whatever particular year it is or the Newbury Award nominees list. There are some amazingly written books out there, many of which are by new authors. Sadly, these books will probably never reach the NYT Best Sellers list. That sodden rag will continue to be home to the Dan Browns and Danielle Steeles or the Twighlight type books and their ilk. (Sorry to those who are fans, but I can't stand either of them.) There are, to be sure, good authors on that list. Justin Cronin is a prime example.
I've been so surprised to find so many young people who will still hold open a door for another person, call an elder "sir" or "ma'am" or show kindness to a peer. I think maybe we lost our way for awhile (especially my generation), but the generation after us has seen or is seeing what effect not raising children properly has on society. I look at our young people and I smile and it relieves my worry.
Keep on keeping on with your writing. It's a thankless and sometimes frustrating craft, but it lends to us such satisfaction when we complete a piece of work. Plus, the money ain't bad either. ;)
-Nealadded by: author Neal on 07/18/2010 - 05.50
Neal - good to see your comment!
Sondra - As another senior, I also wish for the “good old days” of proper manners and politeness that seem to be gone forever. Growing up during the 1950s and early 1960s was carefree and fun, except for the regular atom bomb drills at school that kept us thinking that hiding under the desk or in the hallway would be protection against an attack by the Russians! It was safe to run and play all over the neighborhood, ride bikes anywhere, and play outside until dark.
Just yesterday, my 28 year old daughter was lamenting the fact that her daughter, almost 2, will never be able to have the freedom we or she had to roam freely. Today it is not safe to let the kids out of your sight, and that can be a constant worry. Things have changed, and the past will probably never be available to the new generations.
That said, at 62, I also have seen a lot of innovation occur. In college, the computer room took up an entire building, the newest phones were ones that had a keypad, and the dress codes were loosened up. I was even in a photo that compared the old formal dress code with the new relaxed one that allowed blue jeans, etc. in the dining hall. Our rebellions consisted of food fights in the dormitory lunch room, marching down Grand River Avenue (East Lansing to Lansing, MI) and one unfortunate incident that became an official riot where students spilled off campus and did some damage in the town.
I love the Internet of today, and the opportunity it gives to everyone who wants to learn. There is probably more reading and writing going on now than ever before. No, it is not the old, classical book learning, but the whole world is available even in a small cell phone connection to the Internet.
One concern I share with other Conservatives is that books are being rewritten and our history has been changed. The only way to know true history is to return to those classic, original writings of people like our founding fathers. Unless a person searches for and finds the original writings of famous people, the message those people wrote has been doctored up by people of recent history who thought they should make those writings more socially acceptable or non-offensive or whatever term they use to take the liberty to try to change history.
Those old classic books are irreplaceable, accurate and a treasure. They make the best gifts to give to young people who need to know truth from rewritten fiction. It is sad, also, how fast our world is changing. There is a book written several decades ago (1967) by Marshall McLuhan, called The Medium is the Message. It was very accurate about the changes we are now seeing and how the media we use shapes our vision of the world. He was the inventor of the phrase “global village” also. Visit the website dedicated to his memory at http://www.marshallmcluhan.com/. Still, many of these classics are available for modern devices like the laptop or Kindle. People will not be holding paper and hardcover board, but the words are what count in the long run. As long as the words are the same, the vehicle doesn’t matter.
Sondra, I think at our age, one of the problems is that we have lived through so many changes and we can remember (at least for now – LOL) so much from the past to compare to today, that we do feel some sadness for what is lost. But, there are new “windows” opening daily to embrace. We old dogs are not too old to learn new tricks, and your success with Textbroker is proof of that.
added by: author A-002484 on 07/19/2010 - 09.58
Whew! such interesting and heartfelt messages. I would like to reach out to all of you and give you a hug and sit down and share a cup of coffee and talk all night or all day.
It is true that history is being changed. So I guess we will lose a lot of the history of what made this country great. Not far. Those who are just growing up will never know the hard truths of yesterday.
I was raised in Brooklyn, New York City, and i remember so many things that we had and we did and how we had no fear to sleep out of doors on the fire escape on hot blistering nights in the summer. We had no Air Conditioning, yes and we survived.
I started writing a series and I titled it Brooklyn N.Y in the 1940's. I only wrote 3 in the series and it was enjoyed by all who read it. I decided to write more so that the younger readers can know about the fire escape, the clothesline, a refrigerator that was kept cold inside with big chunks of ice. I also wrote about ironing the clothes and in the summer, the sweat ran down from the forehead to the nose. There are so many little things that have been forgotten. For some, it is completely unknown.
I want to write it all out, have it published on Amazon and maybe it will be put in the Kindle. That would be nice! very nice indeed. I always wanted to write a book, so maybe this will be it.
Thank you again for all of your messages. I never felt I was doing something great - it was nice of you all to tell me.
I am only doing something that I have done all of my life - writing. Writing is my passion - a part of me -and will always be.
Thank you each and every one of you. Keep writing and I will keep reading.
I never imagined when I was growing up, that one can make so many friends, never see them, never meet them, do not even know where they live - but they can be a part of you that will forever live in your heart. That is how I feel now.
added by: author SondraC on 07/19/2010 - 10.52
Congratulations Sondra!
I can relate to you story because I was thinking to myself, "How am I going to get better ratings?" and I saw your blog post on here. I have only had a couple of comments on my articles but none of them really said much about how to improve my writing until one of the clients rated a piece I wrote a couple of days ago. I asked the client what could I have done to make the article better and they told me! They broke down what I had done wrong in the article and asked me if it made sense. I became giddy reading the instruction I was receiving. Afterward, I went to the quiz website you recommended and began taking the quizzes. I hadn't realized how much grammar I had forgotten until I took the subject-verb quiz. Thank you Sondra for sharing what you have found to improve your writing because now you have helped me improve my writing!added by: author Poetically on 07/22/2010 - 06.34
Thank You so much for the informative, and very helpful blog. I have been experiencing lots of frustration lately, not necessarily due to maintaining a 3 star rating, but frustration regarding the article subjects that are available. I sometimes just do not know where to begin, so I've experienced a bit of a month long slump. I enjoy writing, and am very happy when my articles are excepted by the client, but for some reason I am intimidated by the topics, and doubt my ability to pull it off. Is this normal?added by: author Yazz on 07/26/2010 - 01.45
Your blog, is very inspirational to me, as I am an aspiring freelancer, who is experiencing a bit of a drought at this point. Mainly because as I research the necessary tools needed to become a successful writer, I am soooo overwhelmed by all of the competition. I enjoy writing for textbroker.com, but at times can't seem to get through the research process. Most of the topics are foreign to me, or I may be making it seem that way as a form of sabotaging my self. So, lately, as I struggle to perfect my craft, I return to your blog for inspiration!
Thank You!added by: author Yazz on 08/04/2010 - 02.23
Thanks for taking the time to share this. It is much appreciated.
added by: author A-046610 on 08/09/2010 - 10.29
In reply to 'Yazz". If you are intimidated by any of the articles, my suggestion is not to write them.
Try to find articles to write that are about things that you know, and you will see how quickly you can write the article.
Research will help, but if you absolutly know nothing about the topic, it will take you forever to write an acceptable article and at the price it pays, it is just not worth it.
I always look for articles that I know about. Even if the topic brings to mind only a word or a thought. Keep in mind you are writing about something so elaborate on what you DO know about the topic.
Does this make sense?added by: author SondraC on 08/09/2010 - 05.51
Congratulations on the 4 star rating! I am fairly new to Textbrokers and have submitted only a handful of articles so far all of which received "3 stars". I do not expect to see 4 stars any time soon as i am new to this and still have a lot to learn.
I was honestly happy to receive 3 stars. I have recently started to wonder, what makes me a 3 star writer and what can i do to start getting 4 stars? I have not received any negative remarks about submissions but I did receive remarks on one article about comma placement. Thank you for the tips and I am anxiously awaiting any more advice any one is willing to give about writing better.added by: author A-048151 on 09/26/2010 - 07.58
Great article, I am a 3 star, 4 star on other sites....it's my commas and semicolons that cause the problem too here too.
After reading this I really don't feel so picked upon. OK, I really didn't feel picked upon but I can usually wing almost anything and it seemed like my textbroker articles were getting worse ratings...
I bookmarked the sites you recommended Sondra.
I agree strongly with who said read your work aloud for editing purposes, then read it sentence by sentence backward..then read it aloud again.
Thanks,
Tresaadded by: author Tresa on 10/02/2010 - 07.58
Sondra,
Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us. I began checking out the sites you listed and found them very useful. Perusing these site, of course, led to checking around for even more information. I was totally surprised at the volume of grammar and punctuation help that is available on the internet.
I came across the Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation site, found at http://www.grammarbook.com, and literally spent hours on it. It has found a home in my "Favorites" folder. The book is available from Barnes & Noble; there are several online stores, Amazon.com, for example, that sell not only the hard copy but the downloadable eBook, also.
While I did take several of the online tests, I also bought a hard copy at my local bookstore. The book is an easy read, with clearly written rules that are accompanied by real-world examples. The format of the book, which was written by Jane Straus, makes it a perfect reference book to keep on your desk. And it is printed in large enough type that an old geezer, like yours truly, can easily read it!
Thanks again, Sondra, for sharing with all of us!
Steve from "R-Can-Saw"
"Set your goals, plan your work, then work your plan!" Success to all TBers!added by: author Steve Maur on 11/03/2010 - 10.17
Sondra, I find your story very inspirational. I am just starting out here on Textbroker and at the moment, I am actually more concerned with quantity than quality at the moment, but slowly over time I will adjust priorities as at the moment I do need to take in a certain amount of income per day or week. At the moment I really do not have any real idea of what I'm earning a day as I have not really broken everything down as of yet, but I have bookmarked some of the links that you have referenced here in your post.
Thanks so much for sharing some very important resources.added by: author A-031484 on 12/30/2010 - 09.44
Thank you Sondra,
I actually quit writing here for awhile because I was so depressed about my rating.
Then I read your story. Well, I have studied about commas for the last several months, and I feel better about knowing where to place them. I didn't realize I could contact the editors directly until I read this.
I am currently waiting for the rating on my article. Once I receive it, I will contact them, and ask them some questions.
Thank you again.added by: author KRodriguez on 01/17/2011 - 06.14
Thank you for sharing your experience and congratulations on reaching Level 4, you certainly put in a lot of work but it is worth it. You've encouraged me tremendously.added by: author A-058314 on 01/26/2011 - 05.20
Thanks for the motivation Sondra C, reaching four stars is my goal.added by: author KBri on 07/01/2011 - 01.54
Sometimes; being "old" is not a benefit. A few things I learned have changed.
I had a conflict last week regarding periods outside Quotation marks.
I was taught, many moons ago, that the quotation marks go around the quote. "If the whole sentence is a quotation the period goes inside the marks."
But if the quotation, "is only a small part," contained in the the sentence. The punctuation that belongs to the Quotation is inside the marks. The sentence punctuation is outside the marks. This was true, "even if the quotation was at the end of the sentence".
Researching the matter in the style guide; I did find that these:"rules had been changed to make the punctuation placement more consistent."
LOLadded by: author A-076293 on 07/10/2011 - 03.29
Very True Sondra.
I am also an older writer. I din now grammar fairly well once. Some of the rules have changed. My grammar also disintegrated by bad habits acquired doing legal petitions.
I started writing at another site and after a few submissions, was automatically published without any review.
I was thrilled to get my first BAD reviews listing the errors. (mostly comma abuse) I proofread son many times I get dizzy. They scared me so badly, I have cut out many commas, So now I'm certain I will be downgraded for missing commas.
Maybe I feel at home getting "assignments," since I was a student for too many years. I still enjoy the experience and learning more every day.
Like Sondra, I have certainly become more critical in reading others articles. I even had to make a comment about an AP article. I know I am doing better because I am finding more mistakes reviewing my old submissions too.added by: author just PJ on 07/17/2011 - 08.24
Hello Sondra,
I too am trying to move up to a level 4. I have approached it the same way you have. There is one thing I am going to borrow from you. I will ask the editors for more help. I usually turn to them when I have a problem understanding the client's instruction. Thanks for the insight.added by: author Alizdesign on 07/29/2011 - 03.11
Hello Sondra!
This was quite an inspiring blog you wrote. I have just started with textbroker and haven't even submitted my first article yet. I am looking forward to the criticism I will get from the editors, in fact that's the reason I started here. I want to learn as much as I can while still earning a little along the way.
I feel any feedback I can get will help me become the writer I've always dreamed of becoming. My "real job" requires a lot of writing as well but a business letter is simple when written over and over day after day. I've become quite adept and placing comma's where they belong after writing the same letters for seven years. I'm hoping textbroker will help me learn to write articles in a more creative setting and get me going in the direction I really want to go.
Thank you for the links as I can always use more tools along the way.
I can't wait to get started!
CZadded by: author A-079381 on 07/29/2011 - 11.32
I really identified with you Sondra in many ways. The one thing that caught my attention is the absence of grammer foundation after many years away from a classroom. I'm 54 next month and the long time effects of not attending school for a number of years resulted in realizing that my skill levels were below what they needed to be. I was dis-hearted when I first discovered that I could not write the Essay or Text at a level my peers would respect. My solution to that problem was simple and now I need three semesters to finish a Degree in Para-legal. Thank you for the links and the reminder that hard work generally gives much back then what we put in it.
Congragulations on 4-Starsadded by: author A-079742 on 08/06/2011 - 07.23
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