9 Grammar Rules You Should Ignore to Write Better

If you’ve ever paused mid-sentence wondering, “Am I allowed to write this way?”, you’re not alone. So many of us — especially if we’re learning English or trying to “write properly” — get tangled in old-school grammar advice. Rules like “never start a sentence with ‘and’” or “don’t use contractions” echo in our heads like grammar ghosts from the past.

But here’s the truth: some writing rules are outdated, overrated, or just plain wrong in today’s world.

That doesn’t mean grammar doesn’t matter. It absolutely does. But writing today is more flexible, more conversational, and — most importantly — more about connection than perfection.

So why do these rules exist?

Many of them come from:

• Academic traditions
• Latin-based grammar systems (that don’t fit English well)
• Writing styles that were common a century ago

They were taught with good intentions — to make writing clear and correct. But as language has evolved, many of these “rules” have become barriers instead of tools.

What this article is (and isn’t):

• It’s not an excuse to ignore grammar completely.
• It is a guide to help you write more confidently, clearly, and naturally — by understanding which rules to let go of and why.

Let’s dive into the most common writing “rules” you’ve probably heard — and why breaking them can actually make your writing better.

Rule #1: Never Start a Sentence with “And” or “But”

You’ve probably heard this one in school:
“Never begin a sentence with ‘and’ or ‘but.’”

But here’s the real deal:
That rule? Completely optional. In fact, starting with “and” or “but” can make your writing sound more natural, conversational, and engaging — especially in modern writing.

Where This Rule Came From

The idea likely came from teachers trying to stop young students from writing fragments — short, incomplete thoughts that relied too heavily on “and” or “but.”

Example of what teachers tried to avoid:

So, they taught: “Don’t start with ‘but’!”
But in reality, that’s just a way to manage beginners — not a grammar law.

Why It’s Okay (and Even Effective)

Starting with and or but adds:

• Emphasis
• A smooth transition
• A more conversational tone

It mirrors how we speak and how readers actually read — especially online or in storytelling.

These sentences are punchy. They build tension. They feel human.

When It Doesn’t Work

If you overdo it or string too many incomplete ideas together, your writing may feel choppy.

Use it intentionally, not as a crutch.

You can usually start with “and” or “but” — especially in:

• Blog posts
• Emails
• Articles
• Stories
• Speeches

Just be cautious in highly formal writing (like legal documents or academic essays), where traditional structure still matters more.

Rule #2: Don’t Split Infinitives (e.g., “to boldly go”)

You may have been taught that it’s incorrect to insert a word between “to” and a verb — like in “to boldly go” or “to quickly respond.” But here’s the thing:

• Splitting infinitives is perfectly fine in modern English.

In fact, sometimes it sounds better and makes your meaning clearer.

Where This Rule Came From

This rule is a leftover from Latin grammar. In Latin, infinitives are single words (not two parts like “to go”), so you physically can’t split them. Some early grammarians tried to apply the same structure to English — even though English works differently.

The result? A rule that makes no sense in our language.

Why It’s Okay (and Often Better)

Splitting the infinitive allows you to:

• Emphasize the modifier
• Improve rhythm and tone
• Sound more natural

Compare these examples:

Sometimes moving the adverb changes the emphasis. That’s why sticking to the no-split rule can actually hurt your clarity.

Famous Example:

“To boldly go where no one has gone before.”
– Star Trek

Imagine if it said:

“To go boldly where no one has gone before.” 😴

It just doesn’t have the same power, does it?

When to Avoid It

In extremely formal or traditional settings — like an old-school academic paper — some purists may still frown on split infinitives. If you’re unsure, test both versions. Go with the one that’s clearest and most natural.

Rule #3: Never End a Sentence with a Preposition

This one has haunted English learners and native speakers alike:

“Never end a sentence with a preposition.”
(“That’s something I can’t agree with.” ← Oh no! Preposition at the end!)

But here’s the truth:

Ending a sentence with a preposition is often the most natural and clear choice.

Where This Rule Came From

Once again, blame Latin grammar. In Latin, you simply don’t end sentences with prepositions. But English isn’t Latin — and forcing this rule often results in awkward, stiff phrasing.

Some grammarians tried to apply Latin logic to English structure — even though English has different rhythms and syntax.

Why It’s Okay (and Often Preferred)

English is a flexible, fluid language. Ending with a preposition often sounds:

• More natural
• More conversational
• Less forced

Let’s look at a few examples:

The so-called “correct” versions may be grammatically fine — but they sound overly formal or even robotic in everyday speech and writing.

Where the Rule Still Matters

In highly formal academic or legal writing, especially when clarity and tradition are valued, some editors may still prefer avoiding sentence-final prepositions.

But even then, it’s becoming more acceptable to prioritize readability over outdated formality.

If avoiding the preposition makes the sentence sound weird or stuffy, leave it at the end.

Ask yourself:

Would I say this out loud to someone?
If not, rewrite it for clarity — not for an old grammar rule.

Rule #4: Always Use Complete Sentences

You might’ve heard this rule in school:

“Every sentence must have a subject and a verb. Complete thoughts only!”

Sure, that’s helpful in grammar class. But when it comes to real-world writing — storytelling, emails, blog posts, even ads — this rule? Not always useful.

In fact, sentence fragments can make your writing more dynamic, natural, and expressive.

Why the Rule Exists

The idea behind this rule is to help writers express clear and complete ideas. In formal writing or academic essays, that’s usually the goal.

But in everyday or creative writing, rigidly sticking to full sentences can make your words feel overly structured — and even boring.

Why Fragments Can Work

Fragments mimic the way we speak.
They add:

• Pacing
• Emphasis
• Tone shifts
• Drama or style

These aren’t “complete” sentences by grammar textbook standards. But they’re powerful.

When Fragments Are Effective

• Storytelling: To build tension or show emotion
• Blog writing: To sound conversational and reader-friendly
• Marketing or copywriting: To grab attention fast
• Social media: Where space and tone matter

They’re especially useful when you want your writing to feel relatable and real.

When to Be Careful

In:

• Academic essays
• Formal reports
• Resumes
  …it’s usually better to stick with full, grammatically complete sentences — unless the tone allows for some flexibility.

Rule #5: Avoid Contractions in Writing

You might’ve been told that contractions — like don’t, can’t, isn’t, I’m — are “too casual” for writing.

“Do not use contractions in formal writing.”
“Don’t use contractions in formal writing.” ← Wait, isn’t that easier to read?

Here’s the truth:

Contractions are not only acceptable — they’re often better for readability and tone.

Why This Rule Exists

Traditionally, contractions were considered informal or lazy. Teachers discouraged them in essays and formal letters, especially in academic or business settings.

But language evolves. And today, clarity, tone, and connection matter more than sticking to stiff old habits.

Why Contractions Work

Contractions:

• Make your writing sound more natural
• Improve flow and rhythm
• Help your tone feel friendlier and less robotic

Let’s compare:

Without contractions:
I am writing to inform you that I will not be attending.

With contractions:
I’m writing to let you know I won’t be attending.

The second version feels warmer and more human — and just as professional in many contexts.

When to Use Contractions

• In blog posts, how-to guides, and articles (especially for web readers)
• In emails and newsletters
• In conversational or persuasive writing
• When writing dialogue or voice-driven content

When to Be Cautious

• Formal academic essays (depending on the professor’s preference)
• Legal documents or government forms
• Very traditional business letters (although even these are becoming more relaxed)

If the tone is very formal or you’re unsure of the expectations, go easy on contractions — or check the style guide you’re following.

Rule #6: Never Repeat Words

You’ve probably heard this advice in school or writing workshops:

“Don’t repeat the same word — it sounds lazy!”
So, you start swapping words to avoid repetition… even when it sounds unnatural.

But here’s the truth:

Repeating words isn’t bad — unclear or awkward writing is.

Sometimes, repeating a word is exactly what makes your message clearer, punchier, or more impactful.

Why This Rule Exists

This rule came from a good place: to encourage variety in vocabulary and avoid monotony.

But when taken too far, it leads to:

• Unnecessary synonyms
• Confusing phrasing
• A robotic or forced tone

When Repetition Is Better

• When the repeated word is clear and familiar
• When you want to create rhythm or emphasis
• When using synonyms would create confusion

Also, think of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a dream” speech — the repetition wasn’t a flaw. It was the power.

When to Vary Words

Yes, there are times when variety helps:

• When repetition is unintentional or distracting
• In formal essays, where vocabulary range might be assessed
• When you’re using the same word over and over in one paragraph unnecessarily

But even then — clarity first.

Rule #7: Don’t Use First-Person Pronouns (I, Me, We)

Many of us have been told that using “I” or “we” in writing is unprofessional or self-centered — especially in essays, reports, or formal emails.

• Avoid using ‘I’ in your writing.
• Don’t insert yourself into the text.

But here’s the truth:

Using first-person pronouns can actually make your writing more authentic, trustworthy, and relatable — when used with intention.

Why This Rule Exists

This advice was originally meant for academic writing, where the focus is often on objectivity and evidence rather than personal opinion.

Over time, though, the rule got over-applied — even in types of writing where personality, clarity, and voice matter more than distance.

Why First-Person Writing Works

In most forms of modern writing — especially online — readers want a connection. They want to hear your voice, your experience, your point of view.

First-person writing:

• Builds trust with your reader
• Makes your writing feel human and real
• Helps explain personal insight or experience
• Can create a clear structure, like “Here’s what I’ll show you”

Where It’s Effective

• Blog posts and how-to guides
• Personal essays
• Newsletters or emails
• Coaching, teaching, or consulting content
• Even some business and academic writing (depending on context)

This sounds authentic and reader-centered — not self-indulgent.

When to Be Cautious

In formal academic writing (like research papers), overusing “I” or “we” can distract from the evidence or argument.
But even in those contexts, the modern trend is shifting — many style guides now accept limited first-person use when it helps clarity.

Rule #8: Never Use Passive Voice

You’ve probably heard this one loud and clear:

• Avoid passive voice at all costs!
• Passive voice is weak and unclear.

But the truth is more balanced:

Passive voice isn’t wrong — and sometimes, it’s exactly what your sentence needs.

Why This Rule Exists

Teachers and editors push writers toward active voice because it’s usually:

• More direct
• Easier to understand
• More engaging

For example:

Active: “The cat chased the mouse.”
Passive: “The mouse was chased by the cat.”

Active voice usually makes it clear who is doing what.

But that doesn’t mean passive voice is “bad.” It’s just another tool — and in the right context, it’s very effective.

When Passive Voice Works Well

1. When the doer doesn’t matter or is unknown “The package was delivered.”
   (We don’t care who delivered it.)
2. When you want to focus on the action or result “A decision has been made.”
   (The result is more important than who made it.)
3. In formal, scientific, or objective writing “The experiment was conducted under controlled conditions.”
   (Focus is on the process, not the person.)
4. To sound more polite or indirect “Your request has been denied.”
   (Softer than “We denied your request.”)

When to Prefer Active Voice

If your sentence feels vague, wordy, or confusing, switching to active voice can help.

“Mistakes were made.”
“I made a mistake.”
The second version is clear, honest, and stronger.

Use active voice for:

• Clear storytelling
• Direct calls to action
• Most content marketing or casual writing

Don’t obsess over whether a sentence is active or passive.
Instead, ask yourself:

• Is this sentence clear and appropriate for the tone I want?

Sometimes passive voice is just… the right voice.

Rule #9: Follow All Grammar Rules No Matter What

Here it is — the big one. The idea that:

• Grammar rules must always be followed. No exceptions. Ever.

Sound familiar?

If you’ve ever frozen up while writing because you weren’t sure about a comma, tense, or preposition… you’ve felt the pressure of this rule. But here’s the truth:

Grammar rules are guidelines — not prison walls.
Great writers know the rules… but they also know when and how to bend them.

Where This Rule Came From

Many grammar rules were created to:

• Bring structure to the language
• Help learners write clearly and consistently
• Avoid confusion or ambiguity

And they still serve that purpose — especially for beginners or in formal writing. But language is living, and real-world usage changes over time.

What was once “wrong” might now be:

• Widely accepted
• More natural
• Even encouraged (like starting sentences with “And” or “But”)

Why It’s Okay to Break (Some) Rules

Breaking certain grammar rules can:

• Improve tone and voice
• Help writing feel more conversational
• Make ideas more accessible and relatable
• Reflect real speech patterns

Some examples of rules worth breaking (with purpose):

• Starting a sentence with “And” or “But”
• Ending with a preposition
• Using contractions in professional writing
• Writing sentence fragments for effect
• Repeating words for rhythm or clarity

And that’s why it works.
Because sometimes, rules get in the way.

What Matters More Than Rules?

• Clarity
• Authenticity
• Purpose
• Connection with your reader

Good writing isn’t about checking grammar boxes — it’s about making your message land.

Break the Rules. Not the Reader’s Trust.

Grammar rules exist for a reason, but they’re not absolute. In fact, blindly following them can sometimes make your writing worse — less natural, less relatable, and less you.

The best writers break the rules strategically. They know how to communicate clearly, confidently, and intentionally — even if that means ending on a preposition or starting with “But.”

So next time you write, don’t ask:

• Is this technically correct?

Ask:

Does this feel natural, clear, and human?

That’s how great writing connects — and lasts.

Rules That Are Still Worth Following

As we’ve explored, a lot of grammar “rules” are more flexible than they seem. But that doesn’t mean anything goes. Some grammar rules exist for a reason — they help your reader understand what you mean without confusion.

Here are a few you shouldn’t ignore (at least not often):

1. Subject-Verb Agreement

Your subject and verb need to match in number — always.

Getting this wrong makes your writing look careless and unpolished — even if the rest of it is great.

2. Clear Sentence Structure

Even if fragments work in casual writing, your readers still need to follow your thoughts.

Avoid sentences that are:

• Too tangled or long
• Missing key parts (like subjects or verbs)
• Confusing in meaning

3. Consistent Tense

Don’t jump randomly between past and present unless there’s a reason.

Tense confusion distracts readers and breaks flow.

4. Proper Punctuation

A missing comma or period may seem minor, but it can:

• Change your meaning
• Make your writing harder to follow
• Hurt your credibility

Punctuation helps guide the reader — so use it wisely.

5. Capitalization and Spelling

These aren’t about style — they’re about readability and professionalism.

Small errors like this quickly reduce trust, especially in business or academic writing.

Master the basics first — then learn when (and how) to break the rules with purpose.
Just like a jazz musician knows the scales before improvising, strong writers know what they’re doing — even when they’re bending the rules.

Conclusion

Writing isn’t about following grammar rules blindly — it’s about expressing your thoughts clearly and confidently. Yes, some rules are helpful and worth following, but many are outdated or misunderstood. The best writers know when to stick to the rules — and when to break them to sound more natural, engaging, and human.

So go ahead — start a sentence with but, end one with a preposition, or use I if it makes sense. Your voice matters more than some old-school grammar myth.

Write like you speak. Connect like a human. Break the rules that hold you back.