Make and Do

Start with the distinction

The Make and Do page brings together mind maps and a quiz made by GoConqr users. Start with Do vs. Make, which connects “do” with physical or mental activities, actions and work. Its examples include doing homework and doing the cleaning. Use those examples to notice the words that appear alongside the verb, rather than studying the verb on its own.

Another mind map contrasts activities that do not produce a physical object with uses of “make.” It gives examples such as doing a job and doing exercise. Compare its examples with the first map as you study.

Look at everyday expressions

After the introductory maps, explore the map that groups “do” expressions under housework and work or study. It includes examples such as doing a course and doing a job. A different map gives everyday examples with both verbs, including doing the dishes, making a bed and making lunch.

Keep a short list of expressions from the maps. Group them by activity or situation, then check the maps again to see which verb goes with each expression. This makes it easier to compare the examples without treating every use as a single rule.

Check your choices

Next, try Make or Do Quiz. Its questions ask you to choose a verb in contexts such as a job, a decision and earning a living. Afterward, return to the maps and look for examples related to the choices you want to check.

The quiz and maps work well together: the maps present expressions in groups, while the quiz asks you to choose a verb within a sentence. You can then return to your list and add expressions you want to practice again.

Find it in the unit

Make and Do is one section of the Verb Patterns: Gerunds and Infinitives unit in English language. This page focuses on examples and choices involving these two verbs. Pick a map that covers expressions you want to practice and use it alongside the quiz.