Effect and Affect

There is often confusion over the words ‘effect’ and ‘affect’. In order to understand the difference it is important to remember that ‘effect’ is a noun whereas ‘affect’ is a verb.

Effect

Effect is a noun meaning outcome, consequence or appearance.
What effect did the economy have on your business?

Affect

Affect is a verb meaning 'to transform' or 'to change'.
Did the economy affect your business?

Here's a tip:
Substitute 'effect' with another noun with a similar meaning. If the sentence is still correct then you've used the right word.
What consequence did the economy have on your business? It is correct so 'effect' is correct.
Did the economy transform your business? It is correct so 'affect' is correct.

Lesson by Tristan, teacher at EC Malta English school

Now complete the following with 'effect' or 'affect':

• 1. Using natural resources can _ the environment.
  
  effect
  affect
  
  
• 2. Drinking coffee _ my mood.
  
  affects
  effects
  
  
• 3. The _ of a good leader on his team is clear.
  
  affect
  effect
  
  
• 4. It’s easy to see the _ of peer pressure on young teenagers.
  
  affects
  effects
  
  
• 5. The _ of pollution can be seen all around us.
  
  effects
  affects
  
  
• 6. Pressure at work is _ my social life.
  
  effecting
  affecting