For the most part, I use  (Cliff Notes) Cliffs Quick Review - Writing Grammar, usage, and style. When I have a grammar issue, what I am looking for is usually pretty easy to find. If I'm still not sure, I use the Chicago.

I use Chicago when I have a question that can't be answered anywhere else; but it's generally my last resort. My copy of Words Into Type is old (has that thing been updated?). As an adjunct, I recently got a copy of Modern American Usage because of a post and recommendation made by Bob Kalsey in another thread. For just basic stuff that my addled brain has forgotten (or was covered that day I fell asleep in 6th grade English), I look in Essential English Grammar or Webster's Guide.

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Until now I always used Chicago, but I recently started writing for a publication that requires AP. One thing I like about it is that the AP Stylebook, for me at least, is more user friendly and doesn't get into as many nuances. However, sometimes I have to grit my teeth and do something that is just totally contrary to what has been ingrained in me for years, like skipping the comma before the conjunction in a series and loosening up on commas in general.

Oh, my goodness, I'll probably be shot down. but I cannot tell a lie - I do not use ANY grammar or style guide.  Granted, there are times when I must look something up but those times are so rare I cannot remember when that last occured. 

If I were writing college papers or legal or any of many other precise documents I would, of course, be extremely careful and selective in my writing.  But I don't.

I write about life - something in the world: a person, problem, family life, work related circumstances - areas that are not noted for perfection.  The world and life are not grammaticaly correct, nor are they consistant with other areas of life.  It would be ludicrous to say, "Pardon my intrusion, sir, but I do wish to take your belongings without your permission."  The phrase would more likely be, "Git 'em up NOW and if ya makes a sound I'll stick a slug in yer gut!"  Grammatically correct?  Hardly.  In keeping with the story.  Probably.

Perhaps a poor choice of illustration, but I do think my point has been made.  Now, considering an agent or publisher will be reviewing my writing, will that passage keep me from being published?  Perhaps.  But then under the circumstances, I believe a more grammatically acceptable phrase would also be frowned upon.

I guess the question is:  just how does one write correctly, in keeping with an editor and publisher, and still be true to some stories?  I am currently working on a story that blows grammer to bits in many places, but it must to be true to itself and the reader.  Those who have read part of it have no problem with the writing and have never thought of grammar.  Part of that praise is because the story is interesting and the style is, for the most part, totally removed from what they are used to.  After all, it is the story that counts, isn't it?    

 

      

Thank you for your comments and, yes, I do agree that correct grammar is a prime necessity in writing.  As you've probably noted, I have done a lot of radio writing - an area that dictates precise writing since it is the on-air personality who carries the burden of inaccuracy, not the writer.  However, I do feel there can be a broader scope in the written word since, (1) it reflects only on the author, (2) may contain calculated "errors" and, (3) may incorporate grammatically imperfect phrases and/or misused words intentionally as is dictated by the author's style.  Perhaps it will work, and perhaps editors and publishers will not agree.  In my case, I will accept either outcome.  However, I will remain true to myself in shaping a world that may interest others.  To me, that's the joy of writing.

Most of all, I am extremely pleased that you are an Editor.  Your comments have been of great value, even though I will keep writing as I do.  If my work is accepted, I will be extremely happy - if not, I will go down in happy flames, knowing I have at least tried it my way.  Thanks for your interest and your valuable comments!