This is a compilation of errors commonly found in written and spoken English from all over the world. While we should be more forgiving of errors in spoken English—after all, there are lots of things to consider when speaking—we should be more careful in our written communication, whether business or social.

Examples of the errors covered: ‘Advance’ versus ‘Advanced’;‘Alphabet’ versus ‘Letter’; use of the confusing word ‘Biannual’; ‘Complement’ versus ‘Compliment’; ‘Every day’ versus ‘Everyday’; use of the word ‘Literally’; use of punctuations such as semicolons and colons; and ‘Renown’ versus ‘Renowned’. We present 64 errors, one for every square of the chessboard.

Learn and follow these rules to write and speak more rigorously, and to make your communication clearer, less open to interpretation, more consistent. Treat them as little habits you need to build if you want to write and speak more clearly, employ the right words, or use fewer words.

Focus on errors you make repeatedly. Whenever you make an error you’ve made before, ask yourself why. What mental block is causing you to constantly think that way?

We provide tips to help you learn; many of the examples use quotes (who says we cannot have our spirits lifted in the process of learning?); and occasionally even throw in some humour. Learning, philosophy, and humour make for a great combination.