Does Grammar Have A Future?

In a world where emails, texts, tweets, videos and photographs are increasingly used to communicate, is there still a role for old-fashioned grammar? Or is it being made redundant by the use of new technology?

Even though much of our written communication is less formal than it used to be, writing still remains at the heart of much of what we do and how we do it.

When preparing a CV or applying for a job, writing a letter or an essay, drafting a report or a business plan, writing a Facebook or a LinkedIn profile, or even sending emails, it helps if we are clear about what we say and how we say it.

Even though language changes over time, a letter written with clarity and brevity is more likely to attract a positive response, whether from a potential employer, reluctant bank manager or cautious college applications officer.

The main problem with poor grammar is that it makes it difficult for the reader to understand what is being said and therefore less likely to read it.

Grammar, although studied for over 2,000 years, has fallen out of favour in recent decades, even though many commentators argue it should once again be taught in schools.

In reality, whether we learn grammar the old-fashioned way or not, it is useful to understand the basic rules to make our writing clearer and better understood.

Grammar, traditionally, was taught in a rigid, tedious, mechanical, uninteresting, and often boring way, with little explanation given or insight provided.

As a result, there was an understandable lack of interest in the subject even though its rote learning methods ensured many of its rules were remembered for a lifetime.

At a time, however, when the use of technology encourages us to communicate more informally, why should we care about the formality and discipline of grammar?

The answer lies in the benefits that accrue from understanding and applying such formality and discipline.

For the reader, the benefit is that clear writing removes confusion and provides a better understanding of what is being said and why.

For the writer, the benefit lies in using as few words as possible to get their message across and connect with the reader.

For reader and writer, frustration is removed and a difficult task becomes enjoyable for one and, hopefully, rewarding for the other.

SO, old-fashioned grammar has a future even in a world increasingly influenced by technology and less formal communication.

What do you think?

Does grammar have a future?

Look forward to your comments.