No matter your skill level and aptitude, some talented soul out there has, in all probability, created a better mousetrap -- or at least a more entertaining one that’s chockfull of worthwhile information.  Below are a few of my favorites, focused, of course, on words, language and editing.  Obsessed with details as I am, I find them inspiring and enlightening. 

Note that I’ve not listed websites for consultants.  Polished Image’s stable of professional friends and peers stand ready to assist you.  Simply contact Polished Image and outline your goals, objectives and projects, and we’ll match up your desired focus and outcome with some of the best talent in the business world.  You won’t be disappointed.  

This blog’s purpose is to educate, not sell products or services.  It’s posted simply because I believe these are terrifically useful sites.  If you’ve got some favorites that could help others, send the URL to Polished Image and we’ll do a quick evaluation and (likely) add it to the list.  Thanks in advance.

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Common Errors in English -- From my perspective, a Doctorate in Words and English can be had with enough time spent on this incredibly detailed, award-winning site.  Sound boring?  You’ll be surprised how easily the site’s lists of words will hypnotically pull you in -- I promise that you will find yourself checking “just one more word.”  Amongst other features, it has a terrific list of reference sites.  It’s a wonderfully useful site that you’ll find yourself visiting time and again.

Welcome to Professor Gibson’s Wonderful World of Editing -- The introductory copy for this site (aka Making Words Work) says it best -- this site is a “ … warm and fuzzy electronic guide to good editing.”  From employing the correct word to using proper grammar, you’ll thank me for the reference … and it will become a bookmarked site for you, too.

Guide To Grammar and Style -- A bit irreverent and even blasphemous at times, but you have to embrace the professor’s straight-forward approach to suggestions that are likely to work and “have an effect on your audience.”  You’ll enjoy the analogues, the education and the journey.  There are some interesting links and lists herein also.  I’d really enjoy sitting in on this professor’s class!

The New York Times Newsroom Navigator -- Research is so often a key component of good writing and solid presentations.  If you’re searching the net for something, here’s a great place to start -- and stop -- your efforts.  You’ll be impressed with the extensiveness of this easy-to-use list.  From a search of the Bible to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, from the White House to Elvis’ house, from Blogs 101 to the US Constitution.  Check it out.