Do can be an auxiliary or a main verb.

Examples:

• Auxiliary verb - Do you live here?
• Main verb - What are you doing now?

As a main verb do means "general activity"

Examples:

• What are you doing this weekend?
• We need to do something about this problem.
• Never do it again!
• What can I do to help you?

Do is also used for talking about work.

Examples:

• What do you do (= What is your job?)
• I have to do my homework.
• He didn't do any work yesterday.

Make can only be a main verb. The meaning is "creating or constructing something".

Examples:

• These toys were made in China.
• I made a card for my Grandma.
• Who made this costume for you?

Compare:

• Sam, you need to make your bed before breakfast. Do it now!

Remember the following expressions with make and do. Note that make is used more often than do.

Make vs. Do - worksheet (668.6 kB) contains thorough explanations on the use of the two words, a list of set expressions, proverbs and sayings, two exercises and an answer key. It can be used by teachers in their classrooms or as a self-study tool.

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