Common English Mistakes in Policy Briefs by German Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native German speakers from Germany when writing a Policy Brief in English.

Mistake Example #1

Incorrect word order in subordinate clauses

In light of recent developments, it is crucial that we, to address the climate change challenges,by implementing more sustainable energy policies. While the government has made progress, it is essential that, to achieve our goals, we increase investment in renewable energy sourcesto achieve our goals. Furthermore, it is important that, to ensure public support, we engage with local communities and stakeholders effectivelyto ensure public support.

Text corrected by:
Michele A., Boston, Massachusetts; United States

"I rearranged the order of some subordinate clauses to improve fluidity and readability of the sentences."

In light of recent developments, it is crucial that we address the climate change challenges by implementing more sustainable energy policies. While the government has made progress, it is essential that we increase investment in renewable energy sources to achieve our goals. Furthermore, it is important that we engage with local communities and stakeholders effectively to ensure public support.

In light of recent developments, it is crucial that we, to address the climate change challenges, implement more sustainable energy policies. While the government has made progress, it is essential that, to achieve our goals, we increase investment in renewable energy sources. Furthermore, it is important that, to ensure public support, we engage with local communities and stakeholders effectively.

Mistake Example #2

Capitalizing all nouns (following German grammar rules)

The Policy Brief aims to address the Iissue of Cclimate Cchange and its Iimpact on the Eeconomy. The Ggovernment should prioritize Iinvestment in Rrenewable Eenergy Ssources to reduce Ccarbon Eemissions. By implementing Ppolicies that support Ssustainable Ddevelopment, we can ensure a better Ffuture for the next Ggeneration.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"Well done! I just changed some of the capital letters to lower case, in keeping with the standards of English grammar."

The Policy Brief aims to address the issue of climate change and its impact on the economy. The government should prioritize investment in renewable energy sources to reduce carbon emissions. By implementing policies that support sustainable development, we can ensure a better future for the next generation.

The Policy Brief aims to address the Issue of Climate Change and its Impact on the Economy. The Government should prioritize Investment in Renewable Energy Sources to reduce Carbon Emissions. By implementing Policies that support Sustainable Development, we can ensure a better Future for the next Generation.

Mistake Example #3

Overuse of passive voice

The policy on renewable energy is being revised to ensure that the targets are met by 2030. It is recommended that mMore incentives are precovimmended to encourage the use of solar panels among households. Additionally, it is suggested that the public transportation system isbe improved to reduce carbon emissions significantly.

Text corrected by:
Michele A., Boston, Massachusetts; United States

"I changed one sentence from the passive voice to the active voice. Otherwise, the ideas in this text are clearly expressed."

The policy on renewable energy is being revised to ensure that the targets are met by 2030. More incentives are recommended to encourage the use of solar panels among households. Additionally, it is suggested that the public transportation system be improved to reduce carbon emissions significantly.

The policy on renewable energy is being revised to ensure that the targets are met by 2030. It is recommended that more incentives are provided to encourage the use of solar panels among households. Additionally, it is suggested that the public transportation system is improved to reduce carbon emissions significantly.