One way to avoid such problems is to develop an ear for correct usage, but that takes time and experience. There is no substitute for a sound knowledge of grammar. Vary your sentences. Don't use the same sentence structure and length. Use active voice.
Good writing requires action.
There is nothing wrong with using the passive voice from time to time, but sentences using the active voice are shorter, livelier, more direct, and more effective. Substituting a more descriptive verb, such as clobbered , adds even more action. Favorite words and pet phrases become so fixed in your mind that you are less likely to see and correct problems. Set your manuscript aside to cool, and on rereading it, you'll discover that many of the awkward phrases or wrong words will jump right out at you, suggesting fresh alternatives. The same approach works for catching spelling and usage errors in your writing.