Affect vs. Effect: The Classic Confusion

The Quick Rule

• Affect = verb (action word)—to influence something
• Effect = noun (thing)—the result of an action

Easy Memory Trick: RAVEN

Remember: Affect is a Verb, Effect is a Noun.

Affect in Action (Verb)

“Affect” describes an influence or change:

• “The weather affects my mood.” ✓
• “How will this affect the project?” ✓
• “Lack of sleep affects concentration.” ✓

Effect in Action (Noun)

“Effect” is the result or outcome:

• “The effect was immediate.” ✓
• “What are the side effects?” ✓
• “The new policy had a positive effect.” ✓

The Tricky Exceptions

Yes, there are exceptions (because English loves to make things complicated):

• Effect as a verb = to bring about (“She effected change in the organization.”)
• Affect as a noun = emotional expression in psychology (“The patient displayed flat affect.”)

But these are rare. Stick with the basic rule 99% of the time.

Test Yourself

Try replacing the word with “influence” (for affect) or “result” (for effect):

• “The news _____ everyone.” → “The news influenced everyone.” → affected
• “The _____ was surprising.” → “The result was surprising.” → effect

Remember

• Affect = Action (verb)
• Effect = End result (noun)