Google Gets a Grammar Check

For those without a Microsoft 365 account, Google Docs does a passable-to-decent job of creating a document. It doesn't have a grammar check feature...yet.

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For those without a Microsoft 365 account, Google Docs does a passable job of creating a document. It comes free with all Gmail accounts as part of G-Suite, so it’s nice to know it’s there when a document program is needed in a pinch. It has a big flaw though: no grammar check feature...yet.

Grammar Misses

Writing can be a flow of thoughts turning into words. Small grammatical mistakes, like the placement of an apostrophe in “its” or “it’s,” can slip through. Grammar check features in word processors help catch these errors, saving time and improving accuracy. However, these features aren’t foolproof and having a second set of eyes is always beneficial. For writers, this sometimes isn’t feasible. Google implementing a grammar check in Docs is a significant addition, offering another option to match Microsoft Word without becoming a fee-based service.

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word is a staple, often listed as a required skill on job applications. In publishing, Word is the primary tool, with its sophisticated grammar check feature being a standout. The double-blue lines indicate grammar issues, providing suggestions to correct them. Microsoft has refined this feature over decades, making Word a reliable tool for writers to improve their grammar skills.

Grammarly

Grammarly is another popular tool that uses AI to check grammar. It works across various platforms, providing real-time grammar suggestions. Despite initial pride, many writers, including myself, have found Grammarly invaluable for catching errors in emails, social media posts, and online forms. It doesn’t yet integrate with Google Docs, but it’s a useful supplement to other writing tools.

Google Docs

Google Docs currently has a spell-check feature, but it’s basic compared to Microsoft Word’s grammar check. Google plans to roll out a grammar check feature, initially for business customers. This feature uses the technology behind Google Translate, leveraging machine translation to correct grammar. It’s a clever use of existing technology, though its effectiveness remains to be seen.

On Writing

For writers, a grammar check is more than just a tool; it’s a safeguard against errors. While AI and automation aid in writing, they can’t replace the personal touch and authenticity that come from human creativity. As technology advances, tools like Google Docs’ grammar check will help streamline the writing process, but the essence of writing will always remain a deeply personal endeavor.

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