# 2 in Points for Consideration and Discussion (p. 37)

In the book Writing for the Mass Media by James Glen Stovall, the point is made that knowing the rules of grammar is crucial to good, successful writing. I completely agree with Stovall on this issue because knowing the rules of grammar, and being able to apply them correctly, allows you to express yourself in a very clear, concise manner.

I think that grammar is especially important in writing for the media because you are not writing for your self, but to express some kind of idea or fact to others. If your writing contains spelling and grammar errors, it will ultimately cause the reader to consider the intelligence, and trust worthiness of the source. When writing for the media, the writer must be aware of the grammar used because it could turn out to be very detrimental to the source if over looked.

Another reason that I believe knowing and applying grammar in a correct manner is so important is because it is a reflection of not only your writing, but on you yourself. If your writing is incoherent; lacking proper grammar, punctuation and spelling, it causes the reader to make a judgement not only on the source, but on the writer as well. The reader is liable to make a judgement concerning your level of intelligence, expertise, and professionalism.

Ultimately I think that your writing (as well as your speech) should, and a a reflection of who you are. In knowing how to use grammar, you are only making your writing that much stronger.