meta[lenguaje]

Prof. Diverís Vega, English Specialist

---

If you are learning English, you have probably noticed that do and make are often confusing. Both verbs are used to talk about actions, but they are not interchangeable. While this distinction can feel tricky, understanding their specific uses will help you use them confidently and correctly.

When to Use “Do”

We use do when talking about:

1. General actions or tasks:
   • These are activities that don’t produce a physical object.
   • Examples:
     • I need to do my homework.
     • She’s doing the dishes.
     • Have you done your chores yet?
2. Work-related activities:
   • Examples:
     • He does a great job at work.
     • I’m going to do some research for my project.
3. Things that don’t specify what is being done:
   • Examples:
     • What are you doing?
     • I have so much to do today!

When to Use “Make”

We use make when referring to:

1. Creating or producing something:
   • These are activities that result in a physical object or something tangible.
   • Examples:
     • She made a cake for the party.
     • Can you make me a cup of coffee?
     • They make handmade jewelry.
2. Plans, decisions, or ideas:
   • Examples:
     • We need to make a plan for tomorrow.
     • He made a good decision.
     • I’m trying to make a list of things to do.
3. Expressions and reactions:
   • Use make with certain phrases or expressions.
   • Examples:
     • This movie always makes me laugh.
     • Don’t make a mess in the kitchen!
     • You made a mistake on your assignment.

Key Differences

• Do focuses on the action itself. It’s about performing tasks or activities.
• Make focuses on the result of the action. It’s about creating or producing something.

Common Phrases with “Do” and “Make”

Here are some commonly used phrases to help you remember the difference:

Phrases with “Do”:

• Do homework
• Do the laundry
• Do a favor
• Do your best
• Do nothing

Phrases with “Make”:

• Make a decision
• Make a mistake
• Make a meal
• Make progress
• Make money

How to Remember the Difference

A simple trick:

• Use do for actions, jobs, or general activities.
• Use make when there’s a result or something is being created.

Quick Practice

Choose the correct verb (do or make) to complete these sentences:

1. I need to ___ a phone call before dinner.
2. They always ___ their bed in the morning.
3. Can you ___ me a favor?
4. Don’t forget to ___ your homework.
5. Let’s ___ a decision about where to go this weekend.

By mastering the difference between do and make, you will sound more natural and fluent in English. Keep practicing, and these verbs will soon feel like second nature!