FAQ Frequently Asked Questions

I saw this on an email signature and had to laugh out loud! Ambidextrous means to be able to use both hands/arms, for example, being able to write with both your left and right hands.

The next time you want to get a laugh, try saying, “I would give my right arm to be ambidextrous!”

Is there any easy way? Yes, there is! There is one “E” in this word, and I always say to myself, “E for Envelope.” So use this spelling when you’re talking about anything to do with paper, pens and things you’d buy in a stationery story. While you are standing still [stationAry]. Pop over to the Stationery page to read more >>

Teena, i enjoyed looking at your web site. i found it to be very interesting and i appreciate your attempt to battle bad grammar. i tell you what always confuses me. i can never keep affect and effect straight.
trish

Teena says: Trish, thanks for your very kind words! I’ve explained the differences between affect and effect on their webpage – pop over here to read more – Difference between affect and effect >>

The questions from Ann is: Do you have a section on using quotes? I can never remember if they go before or after the comma, period, or whatever!

Teena says:

Great question Ann! I have written about this and you can click the link to read more.

A great tip from Lee, July 1999

“Teena – You are correct on your website page about “Dot Dot Dot” — except when you leave out the last part of the sentence. Then it is “last words ….” with FOUR dots.
From an old retired typographer.

Teena says:

Thanks Lee! It’s always great to hear from people who know how to use ellipses!

1 — Thanks for publishing on the web. I am saving your article in a special file and when I get fed up with incorrect, or lack of the use of, apostrophies, I shall attach this file with my email answer. I could use an article on the use of colons, semi-colons, and commas. Oh, you noticed?
Cordially, Jerry L.

Hi Jerry, thanks for your comments! I will write a page to cover your great request! You can read it here : Commas and Colons >>

2 — I printed every tip listed and and am keeping them on file! I am also interested in colon, semi-colon and comma useage for editing I must do. Thanks for being there!

Ronna. [July 05]

Jerry & Ronna, your prayers have been answered! I have created a new page for you – go check out Commas and Colons!

Teena: Is there any way that you could publish the grammar notes as a daily or weekly tip newsletter? Thanks for considering this! Ronald R., Georgia

Hey there Ronald! I have had so many requests for this that I have decided to start an email Newsletter – I have just launched it! Please click on the Newsletter link in the menu bar.

I’ve just been to your site which I found in Australia’s Internet Directory this month. I was mainly interested in ellipsis, which I always forget how to use, but found the whole site very interesting.

I’ve given it to a few friends I know can use it. I’m writing this e-mail because I’m confused about when to use past or passed, and thought it may be a good addition to your site. If I pass a car on the freeway, have I past it, or passed it? A motion in parliament is passed, but the shop is past the corner of the street. Why is that?
I hope you can help my confusion. Thankyou and keep up the great work.

Michael B., Australia
August 1999

Teena says:

Michael, thanks so much for your very kind words! And for your terrific question – I have written a page to cover this - please read Past or Passed? >>