Sentence correcting

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Hi, guysCould you run your eye over this sentence and tell me if it sounds o.k. to a native speaker, please?1.a. Please, stick to alphanumeric characters when filling in this field and in doing so do not exceed a 300 symbols limit.1.b. Please, stick to alphanumeric characters when filling in this field and in doing so do not exceed the 300 symbols limit.I'm also in two minds over whether I should use "a" or "the". Could you advise me on which article fits the sentence well ?Thanks in advance !

Ivanhr · Accepted Answer

I'm not a native but here're my thoughts

If it's just an isolated field then I would use "a" but if it's part of a broader inquiry and they specifically want you to adhere to the 300 symbols limit used throughout the inquiry then use "the".

Tommy Briggs · Answer

I think "the" is appropriate in this case .

But I wonder what you mean by "and in doing" ?

MrPernickety · Answer

I'm still none the wiser ))

Could a native speaker check my sentences, please?

Thanks again.

Anonymous · Answer

First, in both 1a and 1b, the usage of the word "symbols" is incorrect - in this case, the word "symbol" is actually plural in its own right. It's a very easy mistake as there's a vague, muddy (or, "unclear") difference between the usages. Keep reading - I've got examples of correct usage below

Now, to answer your stated question:
1b is the better-written of the two

The article "a" in 1a is too passive - there is a 300 symbol limit. You're trying to demand something from the user (in this case, to avoid using more than 300 characters), but as you have it written, 1a doesn't impose a clear instruction upon the reader. You'd probably best use the article "a" if writing the statement as such:
"This field has a 300 symbol limit."

You're providing information in that case, but not declaring a demand.

Now, in 1b, using the article "the" expresses plainly that the limit is 300 symbols. You're demanding the user not exceed the limit.
"Do not exceed the 300 character limit."

It conveys a more forceful message, which is a good thing.

Bryan,
USA

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