One of my main fears about this course has definitely become the academic side of it regarding grammar and punctuation. It is not the feeling of I can’t physically do it but more the task in hand of reminding myself about all the grammar ‘rules’ and punctuation ‘codes’. As someone who has been away from education for a few years now I certainly feel a bit rusty. The different uses for commas for example, which could result in what you are trying to write meaning the complete opposite.
I have found ‘The Study Skills Book’ a great help, by just reading the specific extracts relating to grammar and punctuation it has forced me to take a more active approach to my learning. This required me to make a list of areas where I feel completely out my depth in, from this I have looked at the different places where you can get more help, so that I can practice until I feel confident in them. Due to this fear I also made a separate list of areas where I still feel strong in to give me a little boost and keep me motivated with this side of the course.
My next step regarding my academic skills will be to ensure that I am regularly carrying out the OLA’S, in particular the English one. I have yet to attempt it as I am apprehensive of how I will do but I need to get over this barrier or else I will never be able to develop and build on my weak areas properly.
I liked seeing this post as I too am concerned about using incorrect grammar. I think it is hard to adapt to learning what all the punctuation means and where is must be placed when it comes naturally to most of us and therefore we rarely think of it. It is great that you have included a resource to help others who are feeling the same as yourself. This is not just a personal post but also and informative and helpful resource.