You're going to get tired of hearing this, but it remains true: speaking and writing well makes you more marketable in today's tough job market. Potential employers like to see "strong English skills" on a resume or application. Here's another set of commonly-confused words: "affect" and "effect".
"Affect" is an action word. If you connect the A in action with the A in "affect", that should help you remember which word to use. For example, "Jo's work ethic will affect her paycheck in a positive way."
"Effect", on the other hand, is used either as a noun, or with the verb have or one of its forms. For example, "Jo's work ethic will have a positive "effect" on her paycheck." Or, "The effect of Jo's work ethic on her paycheck will be a positive one."
Hope this little mnemonic helps - happy writing!
JustPlainJo, Springfield, OH
Another one I see many confuse is their and there.
ie:
Their car is in the shop, Park the car over there.
Give us more! Your tips are wonderful!
Here's the one that irks me the most: "to" and "too". Remember by thinking "go to" someplace...one "O" in each.
There (place) is here (place) with a" T" in front. Not sure if that helps anybody...
Marg from England.
