The verb 'make' goes with some words and the verb 'do' with other words. simply put, when physical objects are created or as a result we use make, otherwise use do. we use the verb 'do' when someone performs an action, activity or task. eg : do the washing 'Do' is often used when referring to work of any kind. eg :do your job note - these activities do not usually produce a physical object. use the verb 'do' when speaking about things in general. In other words, to describe an action without saying exactly what the action is. This form is often used with the words 'something, nothing, anything, everything, etc.' eg : I'm not doing anything today. there are also a number of standard expressions that take the verb 'do'. The best solution is to try to learn them. eg : do badly do your worst We use the verb 'make' for constructing, building or creating eg : make a cup of tea / coffee 'Make' is often used when referring to preparing food of any kind. make a meal - breakfast / lunch / dinner note - these activities usually create something that you can touch. There are a number of standard expressions that take the verb 'make'. The best solution is to try to learn them. eg : make amends make arrangements