Today is the day our American counterparts observe National Grammar Day. Here are some interesting facts about the history of National Grammar Day.

What is National Grammar Day?

The occasion is viewed as an observance rather than a festival. Martha Brockenbrough, the founder of Society for the Promotion of Good Grammar, established this day as she sought to help her students learn aspects of grammar in a lively and positive way. This day was inaugurated in the year 2008 in the United States under the presidency of George W. Bush.

Why was March 4 selected as the date for their National Grammar Day?

The National Grammar day website states, “Language is something to be celebrated, and March 4 is the perfect day to do it. It’s not only a date, it’s an imperative: March forth on March 4 to speak well, write well, and help others do the same!”

Why celebrate Grammar?

Celebrations are a coming together of groups of people with the common goal of commemorating or valuing something. Why can’t grammar be that thing? In the digital age, we find younger generations using short forms and disregarding basic grammar rules on digital platforms. A commemorative day will surely aid in instilling the values of good grammar.

Why is good grammar so important?

A string of words can do justice in conveying a basic thought… only if you are lucky! Communication is the key to successful personal an official relationships and good grammar is key to effective communication. Sticking to the grammar rules helps an idea be interpreted unambiguously across the world! Imagine a world where books get published unedited, with poor grammar. No one would be able to absorb the author’s message as effectively as any written work that has been carefully edited.

Can we participate in National Grammar Day?

Though it is not officially observed in India and other parts of the world, there are many non-Americans who observe the day as well. There is only benefit, rather than harm in joining our American counterparts in observing this day as well (especially as copyeditors). So get innovative and find fun ways to improve your grammar. For instance, you can gather your group of grammar enthusiast friends and try to solve a few grammar related puzzles online! We have some crosswords here on the Editor’s Essentials site which you can look into.