This entry was published at least two years ago (originally posted on March 25, 2003). Since that time the information may have become outdated or my beliefs may have changed (in general, assume a more open and liberal current viewpoint). A fuller disclaimer is available.
Well, here’s something that shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone with a modicum of intelligence — spell- and grammar-checking software doesn’t always help, and can often hinder good writing.
How might you drag a good writer’s work down to the level of a lesser scribe? Try the spell-check button.
A study at the University of Pittsburgh indicates spell-check software may level the playing field between people with differing levels of language skills, hampering the work of writers and editors who place too much trust in the software.
I’ve been ranting about this for years — most recently, back in September. Software checkers can only do so much, and there’s no substitute for a well-educated mind.