Would you like a trick to remember when to use affect and effect?

Do you ever wonder whether you should be using the word “affect” with an “a” or “effect” with an “e?” 

Most people do. If you’re not sure, there is a pretty straight forward rule to the affect vs. effect dilemma. “Affect” with an “a” is a verb. “Effect” with an “e” is a noun – a very easy noun. The rule is in that tag line – “A Very Easy Noun.” If you can remember that, you’ll find your answer in the first letter of each word. A: affect, V: verb, E: effect, N: noun. Another common trick is the word AVENue.  Which avenue should I take with this sentence?  These tricks will either have an effect on you – or not affect you at all. 

Of course this IS English – which means there are some scenarios that affect, or have an effect on the rule. If you happen to be discussing psychology – the verb/noun rule doesn't necessarily apply – and can even be reversed.