LibGuides: English as a Second Language (ESL): Writing

Online Writing Reference

Writing a paper?

Here are some writing guides to help you get started.

English Grammar Online
Excelsior Online Writing Lab
"...offers a wide variety of interactive multimedia activities, quizzes, videos, and interactive PDFs"
Purdue OWL
Grammar, Punctuation, Spelling, Sentence Structure, Sentence Style, Writing Numbers, Other ESL Exercises
Using English Formal Letter Writing
Layout, writing rules, content, abbreviations, etc.
Writer's Handbook
By UW-Madison

Online Punctuation Rules & Practice

Punctuation Guides

About Guide to Punctuation
Explanation of punctuation rules.
Grammar Book Punctuation
Offers punctuation rules and practice.
WikiHow Using Punctuation Correctly
Offers a guide to punctuation with examples.

Keep a Journal

Improve your writing skills by keeping a physical journal or online blog (and share with your friends)... the trick is to write a little every day, even if it is not perfect. You can write about a special topic (ex. cooking or sports), or reviews on restaurants, books, or movies. There are many blogging sites to choose from:

Tumblr for short texts with pictures. BUT your friends cannot comment.
Blogger for short to longer texts with pictures.
Twitter for very short texts and conversations.