Common Mistake: Using "to" unnecessarily

One common mistake that many people make when writing is using the word "to" unnecessarily. This often occurs with certain verbs, including the verb "help."

Usage of "help" with and without "to"

The verb "help" can be used either with or without the word "to," depending on the intended meaning. When "help" is used as a full verb, it does not require "to" before the following verb. For example:

• Incorrect: I will help to find a solution to the problem.
• Correct: I will help find a solution to the problem.

In the correct example, the phrase "help find" is used without "to" because "help" is the main verb and "find" functions as its direct object.

On the other hand, "help" can also be used as a semi-modal verb, in which case it is followed by "to" and an infinitive verb. In this usage, "to" is necessary. For example:

• Incorrect: I will help find a solution to the problem.
• Correct: I will help to find a solution to the problem.

In this correct example, "to help" is now followed by the infinitive verb "find," indicating that the speaker will assist in the process of finding a solution.

Using 'help' in an imperative sentence

It is worth noting that when "help" is used in an imperative sentence, the word "to" is typically omitted. For example:

• Incorrect: Help to clean the house.
• Correct: Help clean the house.

In this correct example, the imperative sentence "help clean the house" does not require the word "to."

So, in summary, when using the verb "help," be sure to understand whether you intend to use it as a full verb or a semi-modal verb, and use the word "to" accordingly. And remember, if you need assistance with your writing, tools like the Linguix grammar checker can help to eliminate mistakes like these.