A simple way of distinguishing between do and make is to look at whether we are talking about the activity/process or the product. We tend to use do for activities and processes (do work/the shopping) and make for the result or product. So, people do work (activity) in order to make money (the result).
Do and Make are two verbs which frequently confuse students.
Expressions with DO
The following words are normally used with Do:
anything
a job
badly
nothing
a burp
a painting
business
right (the right thing)
a course
a service
damage
the shopping
a dance
something
the dishes
the washing
a drawing
well
exercises
work
a fart
wrong (the wrong thing)
A favor
your best
the gardening
your hair
harm
your homework
the housework
your nails
Expressions with MAKE
The following words are normally used with MAKE:
amends
faces
peace
an impression
an appointment
a fool of yourself
a phone call
arrangement
a fortune
a plan
an attempt
friends
a point
a bet
fun of someone
a prediction
a cake
a fuss
a profit
certain
inquiries
progress
a choice
a joke
a reservation
a complaint
a line
a sandwich
a confession
a list
a scene
a date
a loss
a speech
a decision
love
a statement
a difference
a mess
a suggestion
a discovery
a mistake
sure
an effort
money
trouble
an error
a noise
war
an escape
an observation
your bed
an exception
an offer
your mind up
an excuse
a pass at someone
your way
