Helpful Software / Web Applications

• If you do not have Microsoft Word, or Apple's Pages, then consider using the Write application in Open Office or Documents in Google Docs(both of which are FREE).  Word is also installed on all the computers in the labs on campus.

• PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE don't send me a Microsoft Works file (.wps).  It is almost impossible to open.  I would rather have an rich text format (.rtf) file before a wps.  If you need help converting your Works files to a Word or rtf format, refer to Method 1 posted here: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/315757 .  You can send Pages or PDF files as well.

• When you send me your paper, please name it in the following format "lastname firstname assignment title.fileextension".  For example:  Stanfield Todd Final Research Paper.doc

• If you want a free way to work with reference material / bibliography info, check out Zotero. If you do have Open Office or Word, you might want to check out this video on how Zotero plays nice with them.

• Info about Google Docs for college students.

• If you own a Mac, then I HIGHLY recommend Scrivener for the organization and writing, then you can export it to Word or Pages for formatting.

• But seriously, not having the $$$ for Word is not an issue.  Use one of the other options listed above.

 Helpful Online Resources

• THIS IS THE BEST THING YOU CAN DO TO IMPROVE YOUR PAPERS: 
  How to proofread your paper - from Grammar Girl
• How to proofread your paper - from Purdue's OWL
• What is plagiarism? 
• Check for plagiarism 
• Avoid plagiarism 
• Comma splices
• Comma help
• Quick guide to commas
• Help with subject-verb agreement
• Passive voice
• The use of "effect" vs "affect"
• Purdue's Online Writing Lab (OWL)
• Resources for non-Purdue students at Purdue's OWL

Google Docs in Plain English

Zotero & Word

Meet Grammar Girl

The Merriam-Webster Ask the Editor video series is great too.  

One you might find relevant to social work is the Affect vs. Effect episode.  

Here is what Grammar Girl has to say about the issue.