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answer is: your coat. If you can't answer the question, then there is no object, so use "lie" instead. By the way, a person is not an object. Don't ask who, but do ask what.

"Lie" does not need an object. Example: Lie down and rest awhile.

Remember only people lie, objects do not. If you have an object in your sentence, use lay. If you are talking to a person, use lie.

It's and its:

"It's" is a contraction of two words. Use it to replace it is". Example: It's cold outside. It is cold outside.

"Its" is a possessive pronoun. Think of it as using his, her, yours, etc. Example: Each dog has its (his or her) day.

And or & (ampersand):

"And" is a conjunction and should always be spelled out when writing a complete sentence. Example: They have his and hers closets.

"&" is a symbol or operator used in marketing text especially in lists. Example:

Our company offers these services:

- Writing & Editing

- Sales & Marketing

Consider the ampersand a slang word and avoid using it in stories, articles, press releases and all legal documents.

To, too and two:

"To" is used as a preposition or in a prepositional phrase. Example: Let's go to the store.

"Too" shows an overly amount (much, little) or to replace the word "also". Example: I am too tired. I am tired too.

"Two" is a number and should only be used as such. Example: Two people went to the store.

Which and witch:

"Which" is a selection you can make. Example: Which shoes should I wear?

A "witch" is someone who uses spells and rituals in their spiritual practice.

Pitcher and picture:

A "pitcher" is someone who throws a ball. Example: The pitcher threw the ball.

A "pitcher" is also a container. Example: The blue pitcher is filled with green tea.

A "picture" is a photograph or image. Example: Her picture was taken with a Nikon camera.

I hope these tips will help you remember which word to use when.

Learn more about this author, Yvonne Perry.
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