English: An Essential Grammar is a concise and user-friendly guide to the grammar of modern English, written specifically for native speakers and based on genuine samples of contemporary spoken and written English. In the first four chapters, this book covers the essentials of English grammar, beginning with the basics and going on to deal with phrase, clause and sentence structure. A fifth chapter deals with English word formation and spelling, including problem spellings and British and American spelling variants. Features include: discussion of points that often cause problems guidance on sentence building and composition practical spelling guidelines explanation of grammatical terms a set of exercises at the end of each chapter appendix of irregular verbs. With numerous language examples bringing grammar to life, this Essential Grammar will help you read, speak and write English with greater confidence. It is ideal for everyone who would like to improve their knowledge of English grammar. Gerald Nelson is Professor in the English Department at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and formerly Reader in the Department of English Language and Literature, University College London, UK.