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The most common spelling error for the word "affect" is "effect." This can be confusing because "effect" is a noun, while "affect" is a verb. In this case, the writer is describing an action, so the correct spelling is "affect." While the two words sound similar, they have distinct meanings and grammatical uses. When referring to something that causes a change, you should use "effect." However, when describing something that produces a change, you should use "affect." Which of the following sentences demonstrates the correct use of the word "affect"?

SAT · English · previous-year question

  1. A.The heat did not effect the plants, and they continued to grow.
  2. B.The heat did not affect the plants, and they continued to grow.
  3. C.The heat did not affect the plants, and they continued to grow.
  4. D.The heat did not affect the plants, and they continued to grow.

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