Hyphens

If the words together before the noun modify it, hyphenation is usually necessary. I have a full-time job. My job is full time.

18 year old and 18-year-old boy

Hyphenation is used when a noun is being modified. Eg.  18-year-old boy.  18-year-old modifies boy. You are behaving like a two-year-old. (noun = two-year-old) In this example we’re using that hyphenated phrase with the indefinite[…]

Discrete and Discreet

Discrete is an adjective meaning individually separate and distinct. Discreet is also an adjective but means to be careful and circumspect in one’s speech or actions, esp. to avoid causing offense or to gain an[…]

Affect and Effect

affect = verb meaning to influence: Will lack of sleep affect your work? effect = noun meaning result or consequence: Will lack of sleep have an effect on your work? effect = verb meaning to[…]

In to and Into

In general, use into when movement, action or a transformation of state occur. In to indicates location or state that is generally more static and not transitional.

Then and Than

Than is used in comparison statements;  He is smarter than I.Used in statements of preference;  I would rather drink than drive.Used to suggest quantities beyond a specified amount;  Read more than the last page. Then[…]