Few things in life are more embarrassing that handing in a paper or a memo to people with misspellings all over it. Even in a world of automatic spell check, a term paper or proposals are often times covered in spelling errors. At work, it’s embarrassing and at school, it may even be the difference between an “A” and a “B.” Here are some ways to improve your spelling so that the next time, you are on the right side of the curve!

1. Make a List
To correct a mistake that you make over and over again, try making a list of your mistakes to go over later. Instead of just spell-checking and be done with it, add a misspelled word to the list to review later. At the end of the day or at the end of the week, take some time to take a look at this list that you have made. Try spelling the words over and over. Practice makes perfect and it couldn’t be truer than in spelling.

2. Practice
Do you remember spelling books? Well, they still distribute spelling books. If you feel that your spelling is incredibly poor, try purchasing a spelling tablet from your local school supplies store. The advantage is that these cover the basic slip-ups that even most adults still make. Take a look at these old spelling books – in your own privacy, if you are embarrassed – and spell your way to success!

3. READ!
The most important thing to do to spell better is to read and read profusely. Exposure to words and sentences from a young age has been found to dramatically increase spelling. However, at any age, reading can help to improve spelling. If reading is not something that is part of your normal schedule, try engraining it easily by reading an article a day. Then, try reading two a day. Eventually, try ten pages of a book. Work on exposing yourself to more of the written word and you will see your spelling improve, just like as if you were in school!