Do or Does?

Understanding the Difference Between "Do" and "Does"

Both words come from the verb "to do," but they are used in different contexts depending on the subject of the sentence.

When to Use "Do"

Use "do" with plural subjects and the pronouns I, you, we, and they.

✅ Examples:

  • do my homework every day.

  • You do a great job.

  • We do exercises in the morning.

  • They do their chores on weekends.

When to Use "Does"

Use "does" with singular subjects and the pronouns he, she, and it.

✅ Examples:

  • He does his work carefully.

  • She does yoga every morning.

  • It does not matter.

Using "Do" and "Does" in Questions

Both "do" and "does" are often used to form questions.

✅ Examples:

  • Do you like coffee?

  • Do they live nearby?

  • Does she speak Spanish?

  • Does it work properly?

Using "Do" and "Does" in Negative Sentences

To make a sentence negative, add "not" after "do" or "does."

✅ Examples:

  • do not (don’t) understand.

  • He does not (doesn’t) like spicy food.

  • They do not (don’t) agree with the decision.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

❌ She do her homework every night. → ✅ She does her homework every night.
❌ Does they like pizza? → ✅ Do they like pizza?

Final Tips

  • Use do for I, you, we, they (plural subjects).

  • Use does for he, she, it (singular subjects).

  • "Do" and "does" help form questions and negative sentences.

Débora Mumma

Founder and Director of English in the US, a digital English as a Second Language School.

https://www.instagram.com/deb.ingles
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This or That?

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How to Use: “Is” and “Are”.