Affect vs Effect: Never Confuse Them Again

These two words sound almost the same, which is why so many learners mix them up.

The quick rule

• Affect is usually a verb — it means to influence.
• Effect is usually a noun — it means a result.

A memory trick

Think Action = Affect, and End result = Effect.

Examples

• The cold weather affected the harvest.
• The cold weather had a serious effect on the harvest.
• Music can affect your mood.
• The new rule had no effect.

The rare exception

Effect can also be a verb meaning to bring about: "The new head teacher effected real change." You will rarely need this in everyday writing.

Try it: choose the right word — "Lack of sleep can ___ your memory." (Answer: affect)