Article Details
  • Published Online:
    March  2026
  • Product Name:
    The IUP Journal of Soft Skills
  • Product Type:
    Article
  • Product Code:
    IJSS010426
  • DOI:
    10.71329/IUPJSS/2026.20.1.55-67
  • Author Name:
    Koel Basak and Shibnath Banerjee
  • Availability:
    YES
  • Subject/Domain:
    Management
  • Download Format:
    PDF
  • Pages:
    55-67
Vol. 20, Issue 1, January-March 2026
‘Writing Maketh an Exact Man’: An Empirical Assessment of Undergraduate Students’ Writing Skills
Abstract

Among the four communication skills— namely, listening, speaking, reading, and writing—writing is considered the most difficult because it requires individuals to generate, organize and convey their thoughts through language. This paper focuses on writing as a linguistic process, with special emphasis on the role of grammar, vocabulary, spelling and coherence in effective written communication. Grammar provides the structural framework of writing, while vocabulary enhances clarity, precision, and expression. Correct spelling supports readability by ensuring consistency and reducing ambiguity. Coherence allows a meaningful flow of ideas, thereby helping readers understand the text clearly. The paper elucidates how all four elements together contribute to effective written communication.

Introduction

Writing, speaking, listening, and reading are the four language skills. These abilities assist and are related to each other. English language skills are typically classified as productive or receptive. Listening and reading are regarded as receptive talents because they involve receiving and understanding information. However, speaking and writing are considered productive skills because they involve the production of words, phrases, sentences, and paragraphs.