April 25, 2002: Issue 20
SIM STYLE: Why do I have such a hard time spelling Greg Scheidemann’s name?
I don’t know, but you’re certainly not alone. It’s wrong so often, it warrants its own style point this week. Please note the proper spelling below.
CORRECT: Greg Scheidemann
For more photographer credits see Issues 12, 26, 63, or Credits section of the SIM Stylebook.
GRAMMAR: What’s the difference between “affect” and “effect”?
Context is important. MOST of the time, “affect” is the verb and “effect” is the noun.
correct: How will the changes affect the building industry?
correct: The long-term effects are uncertain.
But here’s the wrench. Though seldom used, “affect” is also a noun
that describes feelings (“affected” is a common adjective for the hoity- toity crowd). “Effect” is also a verb that means “to bring about.”
correct: She walks around with a gloomy affect.
correct: Her coworkers plan an intervention to effect a change in her demeanor.
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