Is using Grammarly cheating?

Answered by Frank Schwing

Is using Grammarly cheating? This is a question that has sparked much debate and controversy among students and educators alike. Some argue that utilizing Grammarly, a popular online proofreading tool, is a form of cheating, while others believe it is a valuable resource for improving writing skills. In my opinion, using Grammarly should not be considered cheating, as it merely aids in the proofreading process and does not provide students with suggestions on what to write or answers to type. Furthermore, Grammarly does not offer suggestions to help students achieve higher grades.

First and foremost, it is essential to understand what Grammarly is and how it functions. Grammarly is an artificial intelligence-powered writing assistant that helps users identify and correct grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, punctuation errors, and other writing issues. It provides users with suggestions for improvement, such as rephrasing sentences or choosing alternative words. However, it does not generate content or provide users with pre-written answers or ideas.

Using Grammarly is akin to having a personal proofreader or editor. It can catch errors that may have been overlooked during the writing process, ultimately leading to a more polished and professional final product. Just as one might seek the assistance of a human proofreader, utilizing Grammarly is a tool that aids in the editing and proofreading stage of writing.

Moreover, Grammarly does not guarantee higher grades or offer suggestions on how to improve the content or arguments presented in a piece of writing. It focuses solely on the technical aspects of writing, such as grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Therefore, it does not provide an unfair advantage or compromise the integrity of the writing process.

Additionally, it is worth noting that using Grammarly does not replace the need for students to learn and develop their writing skills. While it can help identify and correct errors, it does not teach students how to write effectively or express their thoughts coherently. Students must still engage in the learning process, practice writing, and seek feedback from teachers and peers to improve their overall writing abilities.

Using Grammarly should not be considered cheating. It is a tool that aids in the proofreading process and does not provide students with ideas or answers. It does not offer suggestions to achieve higher grades nor replace the need for students to develop their writing skills. Grammarly is akin to having a personal proofreader or editor, and its use should be seen as a valuable resource for improving writing quality.