These two words are very similar, so you will have to practice to remember the difference between them.
Affect is a verb. When you affect something, or something affects you, action is occurring.
Water and sunlight will affect the growth of a plant.
The way you dress might affect your chances of getting that job.
The amount of sleep you get at night may affect your ability to focus in class the next day.
In each of these examples, the word affect shows action.
Effect is a noun. An effect is the result of some action.
The effect of all this rain is a flooded basement.
We need to study the cause and the effect of certain behaviors.
I know you are in a hurry, but the effect of eating quickly will be a stomachache.
Affect is a verb. Use it to show action. Effect is a noun. An effect is the result of an action.
▶Now you try it. Decide if you should use affect or effect in this sentence. Your mean attitude can _____ the feelings of others. Did you choose the verb that shows action? Good for you.