I nearly fainted when I saw the price at my favorite book dealer ($126.52), but I was able to find a really clean used copy of an earlier edition for a fraction of that price.

Now, when I say "a must-read grammar text," understand the context: I'm a nerdy linguist at heart, always striving to learn "the systematic nature of language" (p. xv). This book excites me because it includes sentence diagramming, which can greatly clarify sentence structure for the lost and confused writer. Kolln and Funk provide 64 exercises (answers, too).

But I'd be the first to admit that I didn't drop everything and read the book cover to cover, an indulgence that I rarely can afford no matter how compelling the book. I do keep it close at hand, however, and I even used it to research my responses to questions about collective nouns in this month's "Readers Write" column, below. I have now adopted it as my first and most definitive grammar resource.

Read about two more grammar books that may help you.

Social media scheduling tools 

Sheri E. asked: "The auditors in my company always write clauses like this: 'The committee had their meeting on. . .' Shouldn't it be 'The committee had its meeting on. . .'"?

I thought she was right, but I usually confirm my instant judgment with The Gregg Reference Manual, 11th edition. Sections 1019a and 1019b state, respectively:

"If the group is acting as a unit, use the singular form of the verb: 'The Board of Directors meets Friday.'"

"If the members of the group are acting separately, use a plural verb: 'A group of researchers are coming from all over the world for the symposium.'"

So Sheri was right, since the committee was acting as a unit to hold the meeting.

Learn about the second reader question here.

[This new column will showcase readers and their new or established ventures.]

I first met Bette about 18 years ago when I was exploring career options in college and have since had the privilege of working with her on multiple occasions. I'm grateful for this opportunity to introduce myself to her brilliant readers:

My name is Sarah Taffee. I recently resigned as HR director at a software company to focus on my work as a leadership development and personal coach. I am excited to be receiving my Professional Coach designation in February! For over 15 years I have actively developed people as a trainer, consultant, and HR professional. My experience forms a solid foundation of knowledge and skills for coaching: In addition to asking powerful questions that help clients discover and explore their own path forward, I also offer tools and tips from my experience that are relevant to my clients' goals.

Learn about how Sarah can help you. And if you'd like to see yourself featured in this column, tell Bette here.