Whenever I recommend just one English grammar book, I suggest Raymond Murphy’s English Grammar in Use. The English Grammar in Use series covers all areas, Basic, Intermediate and Advanced, though the one I find most useful is Intermediate. The large selection of grammar points in the Intermediate book is suitable for students of all levels above elementary, either to learn more or to review. Each point has easy-to-follow examples and exercises. It works as a useful accompaniment to test the lessons taught in The English Tenses.

Though it is excellent for self-study, I sometimes also use this book for teaching, as the grammar rules are clear and well-organised.

Why this English grammar textbook?

As a teacher, I use many different English language textbooks and exercise books. Some of them give complex explanations of grammar (I use this if I need to explain something in great detail, for example). Some of them give grammar points or exercises designed to be used in a group, or in a class setting. Textbooks used in classes aren’t meant for self-study, and usually need a teacher to guide you. Grammar books for self-study are usually very dry. This book, however, is clear, to the point, and gives simple exercises suitable for individual learners. You do not, for instance, have to read large blocks of text to understand how the grammar works.

What makes it the best English grammar book

English Grammar in Use is clear and concise. It gives you a language rule, as well as possible alternatives, without too much detail. The exercises that follow are simple and directly test the grammar point. Each page is a lesson on its own – I often use a single page from this book as part of an English lesson. This makes it effective for me as a teacher and for students who would like to use it on their own. You could not ask for more from an English grammar textbook.

Other versions

Murphy’s English Grammar in Use forms part of a series of books. As this search shows, there are basic and advanced editions as well. However, the best grammar book in general is the Intermediate version, available here, as students of all levels can use it. Even advanced learners can use the book for practice, as the English grammar exercises are a good method for revision.

The books are also available in other languages, though you will have to check locally for availability. I am aware of Spanish (pictured left) and Japanese editions, for instance.

As a teacher, I find this English grammar book invaluable. As a learner, I think you will too. Get it now!