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Resources for academic writing

There are many types of resources that you can use in your writing. It is recommended that you consult dictionaries, both bilingual and monolingual. You may also use a subject-specific or professional dictionary. Some dictionaries and other resources are available online, either as an open resource or through the University Library.

Dictionaries

The Cambridge Dictionary

The Oxford Dictionaries

Grammar

Your word processor may mark out certain grammatical errors such as disagreement between subject and verb, for example "they is" instead of "they are". Nevertheless, it is recommended that you also use a grammar book or website.


This page from the Online Writing Lab at Purdue University has recommendations on the most common grammar issues.

The following websites provide grammar exercises:

Cambridge Assessment

British Council

The Academic Phrasebank

The Academic Phrasebank is a collection of phrases that can be very useful in academic writing.

Synonyms

Synonyms may be used to create variation in your writing. However, you should not attempt to find synonyms for subject-specific terms. Also be aware that there may be subtle differences between similar words, such as "write" and "record".

This online resource can be used to find synonyms.

Checklist