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(5/5)Maybe DoIJG isn't the most entertaining resource there is for Japanese grammar, but it is, (in my opinion lol) one of the best. You can have a reference to all sorts of grammar patterns from colloquial to formal. When I began taking lessons a while back with a tutor on Italki, I realized that my main lacking point was, in fact, grammar. I had enjoyed using DoBJG when studying for the N4, so I decided to jump in and buy this volume too. It seriously is a purchase that I don't regret, seeing as it has improved my overall output and comprehension skills in intermediate Japanese.
The question here is "Do I really need this book if I already have A Dictionary of Basic Japanese?"
The answer is yes. ADoBJG covers only the most crucial and fundamental grammar rules; you have to start there before you can get anywhere else. This book builds upon that foundation to cover other common, everyday grammar necessary to understanding native material. You won't be able to comfortably read any novel without studying the grammar points in this book.
I recommend that you wait until you've got a good handle on the basics before going through this book thoroughly. Again, you don't have to read the whole entire thing, but don't skip the introductory chapters (Special Topics in Intermediate Japanese Grammar) and at least glance at the appendixes (the one on compound verbs is particularly useful).
Essential Source to Intermediate Japanese Grammar
The Dictionary of Japanese Grammar series is simply the best grammar series I have ever come across in any language. The authors do an excellent job of combining complex linguistic explanations, complete with examples of both correct and incorrect sentences. Everything is easy to understand. This time, the focus is on intermediate and upper intermediate students (N3-N2)
This book builds on the knowledge acquired in the previous one, with its strengths and weaknesses. It serves both as its own and as a reference.
The cornerstone of any valuable grammar dictionary lies in its collection of example sentences. In addition to explaining the mechanics and nuances of grammar points, this series boasts a wealth of examples that offer a natural context for usage and dispel any uncertainties. With Japanese and English indices, it facilitates the prompt categorization and identification of structures, proving beneficial for translating Japanese text sources and expressing innovative ideas in Japanese with finesse. Alongside its two accompanying dictionaries (Basic and Advanced), Makino and Tsutsui's series presents a comprehensive and authoritative overview of Japanese grammar.