affect/effect

Both of these words are standard English. The problem comes with the way each is used. Here's the deal:

"Affect" is a verb while "effect" is a noun. It's that simple. "What effect has the slumping economy had on you, and how has it affected your bank account?"

As a public service announcement, I'm going to give you a tip on how to remember the difference. The word "affect" begins with the letter "a," and that's the letter with which the word "action" begins; and as we all remember from elementary school grammar, an action is a type of verb.

There you go. Now you'll never confuse the two again. You're welcome. You owe me one.

Moving on. . .