Make vs Do — Why French Speakers Always Mix Them

Why this is so hard

French has faire for both. English splits them. There's a general pattern, but many exceptions — and the exceptions are the ones you use every day at work.

The general pattern

The work essentials

The trick that helps

Make often has a visible result — something new exists after you make it. You make a cake (now there's a cake). You make a decision (now there's a decision).
Do often has no visible product — it's an activity. You do research (no single object produced). You do your best (no product, just effort).

Common mistakes

"I need to do a decision" → "make a decision."
"We make business together" → "do business."
"She did a mistake" → "made a mistake."
"Can you make me a favour?" → "do me a favour."