QuickenBrain

Make vs. do

Choosing wordsRule 3 of 7

The rule

Use "do" for work and general tasks: "do the dishes", "do your homework". Use "make" for creating or producing something: "make dinner", "make a plan". Many pairs are fixed: you make a decision, a mistake, or progress; you do a job, a favor, or research.

Wrong and right

  1. Wrong I will make my homework tonight.

    Right I will do my homework tonight.

  2. Wrong Can you do a reservation for six people?

    Right Can you make a reservation for six people?

  3. Wrong We need to do a decision by Friday.

    Right We need to make a decision by Friday.

  4. Wrong She made a good job on the report.

    Right She did a good job on the report.

  5. Wrong He made me a favor and picked me up.

    Right He did me a favor and picked me up.

  6. Wrong The team is doing progress on the app.

    Right The team is making progress on the app.