Common mistakes in English texts

Many Germans and other non-native speakers have a professional proofreader look over their important English texts because they want to make sure that their texts are really free of mistakes. Here are a few of the most common mistakes that I see in my work as an editor and proofreader.

1. Its vs. It’s

   • Its = possession (The dog wagged its tail).

   • It’s = it is (It’s raining today).
     

2. False friends

   German bekommen ≠ English become.

   ❌ Wrong: I became a book yesterday.

   ✅ Right: I got a book yesterday 
   

3. Incorrect verb forms

   ❌ Wrong: I have seen her at school last week.

   ✅Right: I saw her at school last week.
   

4. Articles

   German often skips articles, but English usually requires them.

   ❌ Wrong: She is teacher. ✅ Right: She is a teacher.

If you'd like to have a pro check over your texts, I'm happy to be of service. I work quickly, reliably and accurately.