Grammar Self-Efficacy as a Predictor ofAcademic Writing Performance
of BAELS Freshmen in Cavite State University:Acorrelational study
Dr. Jimboy B. Pagalilauan1, Dr. Ruby U. Matienzo2, Dr. Manny A. Romeroso3
123English professors at Cavite State University in the College of Arts and Sciences under the
Department of Humanities, Philippines
Received: 25 November 2025; Accepted: 03 December 2025; Published: 11 December 2025
ABSTRACT
This study examined the relationship between grammar self-efficacy and the academic writing performance of
sixty-eight first year students enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies program at Cavite
State University. Many beginning college students often feel unsure about their grammar skills, and this
uncertainty can influence how well they organize and express their ideas in writing. To better understand this
connection, the study assessed students across four areas of grammar self-efficacy which include morphology,
syntax, grammar usage, and editing. Their levels of confidence were then compared with the actual quality of
their written work based on an analytic rubric. The research used a descriptive correlational design, and data
were gathered through a researcher made questionnaire.
The findings showed that students generally possessed a moderate level of grammar self-efficacy. However,
their academic writing performance still fell within the developing range, suggesting that they continue to
encounter difficulties in coherence, structure, and consistent grammar use. The results of the Pearson
correlation revealed a positive and significant relationship between grammar self-efficacy and writing
performance. Among the areas assessed, syntax and grammar usage showed the strongest connections to the
quality of student’s essays. These results indicate that students who feel more confident in their grammar skills
tend to produce clearer and better written work. The study recommends the use of focused grammar
instruction, regular feedback, and writing support programs to help strengthen students’ confidence and
improve their academic writing.
Keywords: grammar self-efficacy, academic writing performance, syntax, grammar usage, editing skills,
morphology, language competence, freshmen students, writing development, English language studies
INTRODUCTION
Writing effectively in academic contexts is an essential skill for students, particularly those studying English
language. Beyond possessing knowledge of grammar rules, students’ confidence in their own grammar
abilities referred to as grammar self-efficacy can significantly influence how they approach writing tasks.
Rooted in Bandura’s social-cognitive theory, self-efficacy reflects a learner’s belief in their capability to
perform a specific task successfully (Bandura, 1997). In the context of writing, students with higher grammar
self-efficacy are more likely to take on challenging assignments, revise their work thoroughly, and persist
despite difficulties.
Research consistently emphasizes the connection between self-efficacy and writing performance. For instance,
Yuda, Rasuki, and Fathurrochman (2024) found a strong positive correlation (r = 0.64) between writing self-
efficacy and descriptive writing ability among Indonesian secondary students, indicating that students who
believe in their writing competence tend to produce higher-quality work. Conversely, Husna, Ningrum, and
Rohmah (2021) reported no significant correlation in a similar population, suggesting that self-belief alone
may not guarantee improved writing outcomes. More recent studies have explored the interaction of self-
efficacy with other factors, such as metacognition and growth mindset. Prihandoko, Morganna, and Amalia
(2024) found that self-efficacy mediated the effect of growth mindset on academic writing performance,
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