Understanding and Using English Grammar by Betty Schrampfer Azar and Stacy A. Hagen (Pearson) is the most advanced book in the Azar-Hagen Grammar Series. Teachers often call it “the blue Azar”. It is widely used in university English programmes and by learners preparing for academic study.
Who Is It For?
- Upper-intermediate and advanced learners.
- Students preparing for university or exams such as IELTS and TOEFL.
- Teachers looking for a structured course book.
What It Covers
The book reviews and extends all verb tenses, then covers subject-verb agreement, nouns and articles, pronouns, modal auxiliaries, the passive, gerunds and infinitives, coordinating conjunctions, adverb, adjective and noun clauses, connecting ideas, and conditional sentences and wishes.
Strengths
- Clear grammar charts with good examples.
- A large number of varied exercises.
- Strong on complex structures needed for academic writing, such as clauses and connectors.
Limitations
- American English focus.
- Large book; working through it alone takes discipline.
How to Use It for Self-Study
- Take the pre-test or skim each chapter to find your weak areas.
- Study the chart, then complete the exercises without looking back.
- Check answers and write three sentences of your own for each chart.
Verdict
One of the best advanced grammar course books. For quick reference alongside it, use Practical English Usage. Beginners should start with Basic English Grammar.
