What is The English Grammar Workbook for Adults about?
It’s a self-study grammar workbook focused on improving functional, real-world English writing and everyday communication. The book emphasizes not just grammar rules, but how to apply them in practical situations.
Who is the author of The English Grammar Workbook for Adults?
The author is Michael DiGiacomo. He has taught English since 1994 and later founded Happy English, an ESL tutoring company in New York.
Is this book a complete guide to English grammar?
No, it’s not a complete guide to English grammar. It focuses on the grammar patterns that are most commonly used in real life and points readers to further resources for deeper study.
What kinds of grammar topics does this workbook cover?
It covers core grammar topics such as nouns and determiners, adjectives, adverbs, verbs and verb tenses, modal verbs and conditionals, prepositions, sentence structure and punctuation, usage and style, and paragraph writing. It also includes cheat sheets for irregular verbs, spelling, and parts of speech.
How is The English Grammar Workbook for Adults structured?
It’s divided into two parts: Part One teaches practical grammar patterns with short lessons and exercises, and Part Two helps you apply those skills in real-life writing scenarios. An answer key is included in the back so you can check your work.
Does this workbook include exercises and an answer key?
Yes, each lesson includes practice exercises. You can check your responses using the answer key in the back of the book.
Can I start anywhere, or do I need to read the chapters in order?
You can start anywhere. The book notes that topics are self-contained, so you can skip sections you already feel confident with and focus on what you need most.
How does this book help with functional writing, not just grammar rules?
It explains grammar structure, meaning, and especially usage, then gives you practice to apply what you learned. Part Two adds real-world scenarios (like school, work, and social situations) so you practice grammar in context.
Will this book help me write better for school and academic English tasks?
Yes, it includes a section on school writing that covers college admissions essays, TOEFL independent essays, and research papers. It also teaches paragraph structure, topic sentences, supporting sentences, and conclusions.
Will this workbook help with workplace writing like emails and cover letters?
Yes, it includes a “Work” section with guidance and practice for résumés, cover letters, professional emails, presentations, meeting minutes, website copy, asking for a raise, and resignation letters.
Is this book useful for ESL/EFL learners?
Yes, the book includes a note specifically to ESL/EFL students and focuses on clearing up confusing grammar points and real-world usage. It’s designed to help learners move from knowing rules to using English confidently.
Is this workbook also helpful for native English speakers who want to improve their writing?
Yes, the book notes that native-level learners can use it to fill gaps in written English. It also includes “Awkward Mistakes to Avoid” sections that address common errors.
Does the book teach punctuation and sentence structure?
Yes, it includes chapters on sentences and punctuation, including independent vs. dependent clauses, compound and complex sentences, and punctuation like commas, hyphens, dashes, apostrophes, colons, semicolons, parentheses, brackets, and quotation marks.
Does it cover writing style issues like wordiness and clarity?
Yes, the “Usage and Style” chapter covers topics like active vs. passive voice, double negatives, first vs. third person point of view, wordiness, and common logic problems caused by misplaced words and phrases.
If I want to practice grammar in real-life situations (texts, invitations, shopping, medical visits), will this book help?
Yes, Part Two includes everyday-life writing and communication scenarios, including invitations, thank-you notes, finding housing, shopping vocabulary, and scheduling and discussing medical appointments. It also discusses adapting your English for digital communication versus professional contexts.
