As with any prescription, an overdose is dangerous. Here are some grammatical rules that are not actually grammar errors but should be avoided when writing to make your pieces better and more professional.
1. Avoid using a preposition at the end of a sentence
As a useful check, try to avoid ending sentences with a preposition.
Although it is not a grammar rule, usually a preposition appears before a
noun or a pronoun. English being a distinct and rich language it can form
its own customs.
2. Avoid beginning a sentence with a conjunction
Although some people persist in prohibiting this rule, it is better to follow
it. However, the majority of modern fiction writers agree that using a
conjunction to begin a sentence is acceptable practice. Instead of
starting sentences with a conjunction, try using a semicolon to merge
two related thoughts, it will help to avoid beginning a sentence with one.
3. Differentiate between ‘though’ and ‘while’
There are several prescriptivists who would persistently use while
instead of though, like: “While I agree, I resist,” whereas the correct
sentence construction is “Though I agree, I resist.” Although it is not
actually grammatically wrong, avoid using while in place of though. It
will read more fluently.
4. Distinguish between ‘since’ and ‘because’
There can be a lot of confusion between these two words. Since is only
used to describe length of time or the stretch or time something
continued. Because offers a reason but not necessarily dealing with a
particular timeline. Just ensure you understand the difference between
these two terms before using them.
5. Use data always in plural sense
Where did they get this data? In this sentence data appears to be vague
in terms of singular or plural form. Data in itself is plural and the
alternative is to use datumin the singular sense. Data is generally used
as a singular mass noun in everyday usage. So make sure you are using
it correctly.
6. Use none in the singular form
None should typically be used in the singular sense. Usually it depends
on the sense of sentence. When the sense is plural, none is plural; when
the sense is singular, none is singular. Although both ways will work,
preferably it should be used in the singular sense.
These are some of the most common errors observed, although not technically grammar errors! Just gain enough understanding of these terms and their usages before applying. You can also take help of professional proofreading services to get error-free pieces with perfect grammar.