Untailored Internet Presence

Words are of prime importance, whether they be written, spoken, exchanged in a formal setting, or in casual dialogue. But because of ongoing informality, the general populace fails to use complete sentences and proper grammar to communicate intelligently.

Our generation’s tendency to neglect the proper construction of complete sentences was originally reserved for untailored internet presence, but it has now crossed over into mainstream dialogue. This degenerative practice has raised alarm amongst not only college professors and the academic setting, but also prospective employers. Thus, the need for complete sentences and proper grammar is not only useful, but necessary to the personal success of each individual.

The minimization of complete sentences and proper grammar is in a large part, attributed to society. As stated by Rudi Keller in a journal “On Language Change,” the English language already maintains variety within itself, but over time, applies change, which simply means that people use their cultural, social, and economic settings, to alter their word choice.

Current trends in word usage within casual settings, such as email, texting and instant messaging, have increased the use of improper word structure and decreased consciousness of this occurrence. The evolution of language has taken a turn for the worse.

In an article in the New York Times, Richard Anderson, the CEO of Delta Airlines, stated that in a job candidate, he was particular about their "ability to speak well and write". Because of people’s growing tendencies to hide behind computer screens, personal communication tends to suffer. Employers are now seeking not only someone to fit a job description, but someone who also can interact on a personal level.

Time has passed since we’ve had our elementary lessons on the proper construction of a sentence. According to the Cleveland State University’s study of writing, a complete sentence must “have a subject and a verb.” Though this simple definition has been mercilessly drilled into students, it seems that this primary principal has been tossed aside, and exchanged for fragments.

Along with the appropriate assembly of a sentence, comes the use of proper grammar. Though many are exasperated at the thought of phonetics and syntax, proper grammar is used to round off the delivery of a sentence and ensures quality in both written and spoken form. Though grammatical rules are in abundance, the basic rules remain the same, subject, and verb.

This problem of incomplete sentences and incorrect grammar is not easily remedied by a shotgun solution. It takes time to form a new habit. However, simple daily choices can ensure that you can be on your way to being a well rounded and articulate person, who is not only conscious of spoken words, but also the proper way to compose such.

The best way to revive the lost art of a complete sentence is to constantly make an effort to form them. While on the internet, try your best to use proper grammar and punctuation while typing sentences. Do not be sucked into the socially constructed idea that abbreviating everything makes life easier.

Another way to improve on sentence skills is to read. Reading good writing, inspires writing good reading. On the account that you’re not a reader, listen to some significant dialogue, or pay attention to the words in a movie rather than solely the moving pictures.

And so, I shall bring close this winded ranting that is a combined effort of addressing a pet peeve and reviving a lost art, while trying to persuade you that words belong in complete sentences.

Being able to utilize complete sentences is like being able to display in fullness ones emotions. When social media confines our thoughts to 140 characters, we are often forced to sacrifice proper grammar for that coveted witty status of the day.

However, a thumbs up "like" on facebook is of insignificant value when placed next to the demands that the academic and work field require. A complete sentence is not difficult to construct, so laziness must take a backseat. Simple actions such as reading and writing, can contribute to the correction of a negative habit.

Complete sentences and proper grammar, are the basis of communication, which has the power to incite brilliant images with words you would never imagine strung together with the wispy silk fabric of language. So go ahead – make a masterpiece.

Contributions in italics by twitter.com/reynhiskey