Dictionaries and Thesauruses
- Oxford English DictionaryThe largest dictionary of the English language. Provides historical information and examples.
- Merriam-WebsterA popular, freely-available American dictionary.
- Thesaurus.comThe largest freely-available thesaurus, with several million words.
Grammar and Style Resources
- IEEE Editorial Style ManualThe official style guide for the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers. One of the most commonly used technical writing styles in engineering.
Writing Science: How to Write Papers That Get Cited and Proposals That Get Funded by Call Number: E-BookISBN: 9780199909513Publication Date: 2011-11-01Writing Science is a much-needed guide to succeeding in modern science. Its insights and strategies will equip science students, scientists, and professionals across a wide range of scientific and technical fields with the tools needed to communicate effectively.
The Elements of Style by Call Number: PE1408.S772 2000ISBN: 020530902XPublication Date: 1999-07-23The classic style manual.
The Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation by ISBN: 9781118785560Publication Date: 2014-02-10The Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation is a concise, entertaining workbook and guide to English grammar, punctuation, and usage. This user-friendly resource includes simple explanations of grammar, punctuation, and usage; scores of helpful examples; dozens of reproducible worksheets; and pre- and post-tests to help teach grammar to students of all ages.
Style: The basics of clarity and grace by Call Number: PE1421.W5455 2009ISBN: 9780205605354Publication Date: 2008-01-10The text features principles of effective prose, offering reason-based principles, rather than hard and fast rules, for successful, effective writing.
Penn State Writing Centers and Tutorials
- Writing Technical ReportsTutorial created by Michael Alley of Penn State's College of Engineering to help students write proper technical reports.
- Penn State Learning: Writing Tutors"Penn State peer tutors are experts at talking about writing. By listening to student concerns and asking questions, tutors can help break through writing blocks for students to express themselves clearly. No matter what your previous experience, they’re here to help. Come join the conversation!"