Other errors may be acceptable from a straight usage standpoint, but are faulty in their meanings or in the lack of them. Writers should be as careful to avoid these sorts of errors; in at least some cases they are more reckless than straight usage errors. Here are three rules to observe:
1. Generally, use the active voice rather than the passive.
It is recommended that tuition be substantially increased.
Problem and cure: As stated, there is nothing erroneous about this sentence from a pure usage standpoint. But the problem with this and other passive sentences is the absence of agency: who, in particular, is doing the recommending? The sentence gives us no clue. Such a sentence may justifiably lead the reader to ask what the writer is trying to hide. Here is the same sentence in the active voice. Note that it less wordy and more responsible:
The Board of Trustees recommends a substantial increase in tuition.
2. Don't abbreviate or use modified spellings.
If we luv 1 another thru thick 'n' thin, we'll all be OK.
Problem and cure: Unless there is a good reason to do otherwise, spell out all words in their standard forms.
3. Avoid clichés and worn-out phrases.
Ol' Glory flies proud and strong over this great, dear land of ours.
Problem and cure: While there may be nothing wrong with this sentiment, by resorting to a ready-made way of saying something, the writer of this sentence gives the strong impression that he isn't thinking for himself. Clichés are phrases that may have been novel and effective at one time, but have been used so often that they have lost their power. It's better to put the idea that one loves the flag (and the country for which it stands) into fresh words.
In speech, most of us use clichés at least every now and then. They can be shortcuts in communication, and they have their purpose. However, in more academic, formal situations, writers should avoid clichés whenever possible.