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Ace that Essay by Avoiding these 5 Typical Grammar Mistakes

5 Typical Grammar Mistakes – I woke up to a rather pleasant morning (until I saw my task list).I am held in a bind — 2 new assignments due next week and one paper that was sent back to me for revision due to grammatical errors in it.

So, I decided to run some errands quickly and get started with these right on.

As I stepped into a grocery store, I saw a placard that read, “Please satanize your hands!” Who am I to judge? Especially after receiving a revision suggestion for grammar and poor language. But all I knew was that the COVID-19 terror may have passed, but the grammar nazis will never stop to take a dig at us.

Now I know why is being grammatically correct important.

And as for academic writing, it helps to ensure that your argument is clear and easy to follow. Furthermore, it shows that you have a firm grasp of the language and can communicate clearly. Finally, it adds credibility to your argument by demonstrating that you can write correctly.

That was my sign to prioritize the revision of the paper and then move to the new papers, hoping to avoid making the same grammar mistakes again.

On returning home, I quickly opened the paper that was to be revised for the poor grammar and language. However, the comments read words like “subject-verb agreement,” “pronoun-antecedent agreement,” and so on. Absolutely clueless, I began browsing to know what these terms even meant.

And here are the 5 most common grammatical mistakes we make in writing academic essays. These helped me improve my academic writing skills and avoid receiving grammar corrections for any of my assignments thereafter.

Top 5 Most Common Grammar Mistakes and How to Avoid Them While Writing Essays

Subject-Verb Agreement

a. Ensure that the subject and verb in a sentence agree in number (singular or plural), i.e., singular subject with a singular verb and plural subject with a plural verb.
b. It is important to understand the basic rules for subject-verb agreement, including singular and plural subjects, compound subjects, and irregular verbs.
c. Some words, such as collective nouns and indefinite pronouns, can cause subject-verb agreement errors. Be aware of these exceptions, and make sure the verb agrees with the subject.
d. Try to limit the number of clauses in a single sentence to prevent confusing the subject and verb agreement.
e. As you become more aware of the importance of the subject-verb agreement, try practicing writing in clear and simple sentences to improve your writing skills.
Example of a subject-verb agreement
Incorrect: “The team of scientists are presenting their findings today.”
Correct: “The team of scientists is presenting their findings today.”
Pronoun-Antecedent Agreement

a. Make sure that pronouns refer clearly to their antecedents (something that logically precedes the other).
b. The pronouns should agree in number with the nouns they refer to, i.e., use “he” with “he” and “they” with “they.”
c. Ensure that the pronoun used in a sentence agrees with the antecedent in both number and person.
d. Avoid using indefinite antecedents, such as “everyone” or “someone,” that can cause pronoun-antecedent agreement errors.
e. If a sentence is getting complex, repeating the antecedent can help prevent agreement errors.

Examples of a pronoun-antecedent agreement
Incorrect: “If a researcher wants to succeed, they must work hard.”
Correct: “If a researcher wants to succeed, he or she must work hard.”

Run-on Sentences and Fragments
a. Avoid run-on sentences (two independent clauses joined without proper punctuation) and sentence fragments (incomplete sentences). Long sentences can be difficult to read and understand. Instead, use clear and concise sentences.
b. Use proper punctuation; use periods, semicolons, or conjunctions to separate independent clauses into distinct sentences.
c. Avoid using too many clauses. Try to limit the number of clauses in a single sentence to prevent it from becoming too lengthy and complex.
d. Use subordinate clauses to help make long sentences more manageable and readable by breaking them into smaller parts.
e. If you have several short, related sentences, consider combining them into a single sentence to make your writing more concise and effective.
Example of a run-on sentence
Incorrect: “I was tired so I went to bed early, I slept well.”
Correct: “I was tired, so I went to bed early. I slept well.”
Example of a fragment
Incorrect: “Despite the bad weather.”
Correct: “Despite the bad weather, I went for a walk.”
Misplaced Modifiers
a. Position adjectives and adverbs correctly to clearly convey the intended meaning.
b. Clearly state the subject of the sentence.
c. Writing in active voice makes it easier to avoid misplaced modifiers, as the subject is typically placed before the verb.
d. Place modifiers close to the words they modify. Ensure that descriptive words or phrases are positioned near the words they are modifying.
e. Avoid constructing sentences that could be interpreted in multiple ways by placing modifiers in clear and specific positions.
f. Proper use of commas, semicolons, and dashes can help clarify the intended meaning of a sentence and prevent misplaced modifiers.
Example of misplaced modifiers
Incorrect: “Zara fed the guinea pigs wearing her raincoat.”
Correct: “Wearing her raincoat, Zara fed the guinea pigs.”
Incorrect Verb Tense
a. It is important to understand the basic verb tenses, including present simple, present continuous, past simple, past continuous, present perfect, and past perfect.
b. Use the appropriate tense for the context. Choose the correct verb tense based on the context of the sentence and the time frame being described.
c. Avoid switching verb tenses in the middle of a sentence or paragraph, as this can be confusing for the reader.
Example of incorrect verb tense
Incorrect: “Yesterday, I complete the experiment.”
Correct: “Yesterday, I completed the experiment.”

While these are the typical mistakes everyone makes in academic writing, one would wonder why these mistakes are so common.

Why Are These Grammar Mistakes So Common?

1. Lack of language proficiency: If English is not your first language, you are more likely to make grammatical mistakes.

2. Rush to meet deadlines: In the rush to complete an assignment or research paper, you may overlook grammatical errors.

3. Focus on content over form: Academicians may prioritize the content of their writing over its form, leading to grammatical errors.

4. Poor editing skills: You may not have the necessary editing skills to detect and correct grammatical mistakes in your writing. Thus taking the help of professional editing services proves beneficial in all cases.

5. Limited attention to detail: You may not pay enough attention to the details of your writing, which obviously leads to grammatical errors.

However, it’s worth noting that even highly educated and experienced academics can make grammatical errors, and these errors do not diminish the value of their research or insights.

It does seem like a daunting task, doesn’t it? But clear and accurate writing is important in essays as it helps you effectively communicate your ideas, establish credibility, and demonstrate your professionalism and attention to detail.

So don’t make the same mistakes again. Try making new ones.

And if you still can’t figure out what mistakes you are making, get grammar corrections from editing services! Get started now with that essay you left unfinished!

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Legal

Thai Court Amends Law to Allows Wives to Sue Husband’s Lovers

Thailand's Constitutional Court Allows Wives to Sue Husband's Lovers

Angry Thai Wife: File Image

Thailand’s Constitutional Court has changed the Civil Code will allow women to sue their husbands’ lovers, male or female. The Constitutional Court found on Tuesday that Section 1523 of the Civil Code breached Section 27 of the constitution, which safeguards Thais’ rights and liberties regardless of gender.

The court directed that the verdict be enforced within 360 days.

Section 1523 of the Civil Code states that husbands can sue their wives’ lovers, and wives can sue other women who publicly display an adulterous connection with their husband.

Keirov Kritteeranon, secretary-general of the Office of the Ombudsman, stated that the Ombudsman had previously urged the court to rule on the legality of Section 1523, which allowed wives to suit only female lovers.

Husbands can now sue their wives’ boyfriends regardless of gender, and there was no requirement for any public declaration of an adulterous connection, he claimed.

Once enforced, Tuesday’s Constitutional Court order, according to the Ombudsman, will correct this imbalance.

Thailand Amends Marriage Law

Meanwhile, Thailand is set to become the first Southeast Asian country to recognise same-sex marriage, after its marriage equality law was passed in the Upper House on Tuesday and is now on its approach to being promulgated before going into effect in the coming months.

LGBTQ+ advocates rejoiced as the Senate voted 130-4 to pass the bill on its final reading, with 18 abstentions. They hailed the development as a win in their long struggle for equal rights.

When the advocates who had gathered at parliament on Tuesday to witness the Senate’s final reading and vote on the measure heard the outcome, they burst out in cheers.

They next went to authorities House, where the authorities had planned a celebratory reception for them later in the day. They then went to the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, where the party lasted until late at night.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who is on sick leave due to Covid-19, congratulated them via Zoom call from Government House.

The new law will allow any two people aged 18 or older to register their marriage and obtain the same advantages and rights as heterosexual couples. The bill refers to married couples as “two individuals” rather than “a man and a woman,” and changes their legal status from “husband and wife” to “spouses.”

LGBTQ+ people from any country can legally marry in Thailand. When the bill goes into force, foreign same-sex married partners will be eligible for a spousal visa.

The law will be sent to the government for approval before being presented to the monarch.

It will take effect within 120 days of its publication in the Royal Gazette, making Thailand the third Asian country to accept same-sex marriages after Nepal and Taiwan.

Senator Kamnoon Sidhisamarn, spokesman for the Senate’s special committee evaluating the proposed law, called it a victory for equal rights campaigners.

“There is no reason for the Upper House to disagree with the judgement made by the House of Representatives,” he told reporters. He was referring to the legislation’s passage in the Lower House prior to its submission to the Senate for approval.

The battle for same-sex marriage legislation began 23 years ago. Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat, a Move Forward Party list-MP, said that the law’s passage on Tuesday signified the beginning of a new chapter in Thai history.

Source: Bangkok Post

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Legal

Thailand’s Senate Passes Landmark Marriage Equity Bill Legalizing Gay Marriage

Thailand’s Senate has approved a long awaited marriage equality bill on Tuesday, making the country the third Asian country to accept same-sex couples. The Senate approved the law 130-4 with 18 abstentions.

The marriage equality bill will be sent the palace for royal clearance. The marriage equality law takes 120 days to take effect after Royal Gazette publication.

LGBTQ+ advocates welcomed the proposal a “monumental step forward” because Thailand would be the first Southeast Asian country to legalise marriage equality. Thailand is popular with travellers due to its LGBTQ+ culture and tolerance.

“This would underscore Thailand’s leadership in the region in promoting human rights and gender equality,” the Civil Society Commission of marriage equality, activists, and LGBTI+ couples said.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who wore a rainbow shirt to commemorate Pride Month, joined thousands of LGBTQ+ revellers and activists in a Bangkok parade at the start of June.

The prime minister will open Government House to commemorate the bill’s passage. Pride supporters will march from Parliament to the prime minister’s office. Mr. Srettha, who has Covid-19, will join them online after taking several days off.

Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai anticipates June’s Pride Month to create approximately 4.5 billion baht in economic cash flow.

Marriage Equity Bill

Pride Month in Thailand

On Saturday, Mr. Phumtham said the government under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is encouraging sexual diversity and working with the commercial sector to plan more Pride Month festivities to attract LGBTQ+ tourists.

He claimed it will increase the country’s trade potential by giving SMEs business expansion chances and adding soft power value.

Mr. Phumtham claimed Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, told him Pride Month celebrations will make Thailand a “pride-friendly destination” for LGBTQ+ Thai and global consumers.

This would help the country become a regional tourism hub under the government’s “Ignite Tourism Thailand” initiative to enhance tourism in 55 “worth visiting” provinces.

He added that such festivals will support downstream industries like event planners, food and beverage companies, hotels, and transport services and disperse cash to local areas. Mr. Phumtham stated Thailand’s Pride Month began in 1999. Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Chon Buri host parades, festivities, and campaigns.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects approximately 860,000 people to attend this year’s festival and contribute at least 4.5 billion baht for the economy. LGBT Capital estimates that the world’s LGBTQ+ population has US$4.7 trillion in purchasing power and Thailand’s sexually varied population has US$26 billion.

LGBTQ+ rights in Thailand are improving, but there’s still much to do. The LGBTQ+ community in Thailand is notably strong in Bangkok and Pattaya.

Strong legal recognition allows transgender people to change their names and titles. Many LGBTQ+ couples lack legal rights since same-sex marriage is banned.

Marriage Equity Bill

LGBTQ+ rights in Thailand

Thailand is becoming more accepting despite these difficulties. LGBTQ+ rights are gaining favour. Activists want legal changes to guarantee equality.

Pride parades are becoming increasingly visible, demonstrating diverse acceptance. While challenges remain, LGBTQ+ rights in Thailand are improving as awareness and acceptance expand.

Legal

Protecting Your Designs: Intellectual Property Rights in the Jewelry Manufacturing Industry

Intellectual Property jewellery

The jewelry manufacturing industry is a vibrant and highly competitive sector where creativity and innovation are paramount. Designers invest significant time, effort, and resources into crafting unique pieces that appeal to consumers’ tastes and preferences. However, this industry faces a persistent challenge: the protection of original designs from imitation and unauthorized use.

Intellectual property rights (IPR) play a crucial role in safeguarding jewellery designs, ensuring that creators receive recognition and financial benefits from their work. This article delves into the various forms of intellectual property rights pertinent to the jewelry manufacturing industry and offers insights on how designers can protect their creations.

Understanding Intellectual Property Rights

Intellectual property rights are legal mechanisms that grant creators exclusive rights to their inventions, designs, and artistic works. These rights encourage innovation by providing creators with the means to control the use of their creations and to benefit financially from them. In the context of jewelry design, the most relevant forms of IPR are copyrights, trademarks, patents, and design rights.

Copyrights

Copyright protection extends to original works of authorship, including artistic creations such as jewelry designs. Under copyright law, the designer of a piece of jewelry automatically acquires the exclusive right to reproduce, distribute, and display the design upon its creation. This protection does not require registration, although registering the copyright with the appropriate governmental body, such as the U.S. Copyright Office, can provide additional legal benefits and evidence of ownership.

For jewelry designers, copyright protects the aesthetic aspects of a piece, such as the specific design, patterns, and artistic expressions. However, it does not cover the functional elements or the materials used. The duration of copyright protection varies by country, but it typically lasts for the life of the creator plus an additional 50 to 70 years.

Trademarks

Trademarks protect symbols, names, logos, and slogans that distinguish goods and services in the marketplace. For jewelry manufacturers, a trademark can cover the brand name, logo, or even a unique product line name.

Registering a trademark with the appropriate authority, such as the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), provides nationwide protection and the exclusive right to use the mark in connection with the specified goods or services.

A strong trademark helps consumers identify and differentiate a brand’s products from those of competitors, fostering brand loyalty and reducing the risk of confusion in the marketplace. It also provides legal recourse against counterfeiting and unauthorised use of the brand’s identity.

Patents

Patents protect new inventions and technical innovations. In the jewelry industry, this could include innovative manufacturing processes, unique mechanisms for adjustable or interchangeable jewelry, or novel materials and techniques. A patent grants the inventor the exclusive right to use, make, and sell the invention for a limited period, usually 20 years from the filing date of the patent application.

Obtaining a patent involves a rigorous process of proving that the invention is novel, non-obvious, and useful. For jewelry designers, the primary benefit of patent protection lies in safeguarding their innovative techniques and mechanical features, which can provide a competitive edge in the market.

Design Rights

Design rights specifically protect the visual appearance of a product, including its shape, configuration, pattern, and ornamentation. These rights are particularly relevant to the jewelry industry, where the aesthetic appeal of a product is a key selling point. In many jurisdictions, design rights must be registered to be enforceable, though some countries offer unregistered design rights that provide limited protection.

Registering a design right involves submitting detailed representations of the design to the relevant authority, such as the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) for protection within the EU. Registered design rights typically offer protection for up to 25 years, subject to renewal fees.

Steps to Protect Jewelry Designs

Document Your Designs: Maintain detailed records of your design process, including sketches, prototypes, and finished pieces. This documentation can serve as evidence of originality and ownership in case of disputes.
Conduct Searches: Before launching a new design, conduct thorough searches to ensure it does not infringe on existing intellectual property. This can prevent legal issues and costly disputes.
Register Your IP: Where applicable, register your copyrights, trademarks, patents, and design rights with the appropriate authorities. Registration enhances protection and provides legal advantages in enforcing your rights.
Use NDAs and Contracts: When working with manufacturers, suppliers, and collaborators, use non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and detailed contracts to protect your designs and outline the terms of use. ( Check out EJ: A Jewelry Manufacturer with NDA’s.
Monitor the Market: Regularly monitor the market for potential infringements. This can involve online searches, attending trade shows, and staying informed about competitors’ activities.
Take Legal Action if Necessary: If you discover an infringement, take prompt legal action to enforce your rights. This may involve sending cease-and-desist letters, pursuing litigation, or seeking alternative dispute resolution methods.

Challenges and Considerations

While intellectual property rights offer significant protection, there are challenges and limitations to consider. The cost and complexity of obtaining and enforcing IPR can be prohibitive, especially for small designers and startups. Additionally, the global nature of the jewelry market means that protections obtained in one jurisdiction may not be recognized elsewhere, necessitating international strategies for comprehensive protection.

Moreover, the fast-paced nature of fashion and jewelry trends can make lengthy registration processes impractical for certain designs. In such cases, relying on unregistered design rights or focusing on brand protection through trademarks may be more viable strategies.

Conclusion

Intellectual property rights are a vital tool for protecting the creativity and innovation that drive the jewelry manufacturing industry. By understanding and strategically utilizing copyrights, trademarks, patents, and design rights, designers can safeguard their creations, enhance their competitive edge, and ensure they reap the financial rewards of their ingenuity. As the industry continues to evolve, staying informed about IPR and adapting to emerging challenges will be crucial for sustaining success in the dynamic world of jewelry design.