You pause while typing an email or writing an essay and wonder: is it puting or putting? This is a very common mistake because the words sound almost the same.
Spellcheck sometimes misses it, and it can look confusing to learners of English.
Many people search puting or putting because they want a quick, clear answer. Should there be one “t” or two? Does it matter in British and American English?
This blog explains the rules in a simple, clear way. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to spell it correctly every time.
Puting or Putting – Quick Answer
✅ “Putting” is correct.
❌ “Puting” is incorrect in standard English.
Explanation:
- The verb put doubles the consonant t when forming the present participle (putting) because it ends in a single vowel + single consonant.
Examples:
- She is putting the books on the shelf.
- I am putting my coat on before leaving.
Tip: If you see “puting,” it’s a spelling mistake.
Why We Double the T in Putting
The rule comes from English spelling conventions:
- If a verb has one syllable and ends in consonant-vowel-consonant (CVC), double the final consonant before adding -ing.
- Put → Putting
- Run → Running, Sit → Sitting
Examples:
- Put → Putting
- Run → Running
- Sit → Sitting
Common Mistake:
- Writing puting is incorrect because the “t” must double in this rule.
British English vs American English Spelling
There is no difference between British and American English for putting. Both use the double “t.”
Comparison Table
| Word | US English | UK English | Correct |
|---|---|---|---|
| Putting | ✔ | ✔ | ✅ |
| Puting | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Both varieties follow the CVC doubling rule, so learners worldwide can apply the same guideline.
Which Form Should You Always Use?
Always use putting in:
- Emails
- Essays
- Reports
- Texts
- Official documents
Example:
- I am putting together a presentation for tomorrow. ✅
- I am puting together a presentation for tomorrow. ❌
This ensures your writing looks professional and correct.
Common Mistakes With Putting
| Mistake | Correction |
|---|---|
| Writing “puting” | Use “putting” |
| Forgetting the doubling rule | Check the CVC pattern |
| Trusting spellcheck | Manual check is safer |
| Using “puting” in formal writing | Always use “putting” |
| Mixing with similar verbs | Remember run → running, sit → sitting |
Putting in Everyday Sentences
Casual Writing
- She is putting her shoes on.
- I am putting the groceries in the kitchen.
Business / Emails
- I am putting together the report for review.
- The team is putting final touches on the project.
Education / Academic Writing
- He is putting ideas into practice.
- Students are putting theory into real-life experiments.
Social Media
- I am putting my thoughts into words.
- She is putting her art online.
Puting vs Putting – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search trends indicate that “putting” is overwhelmingly used and correct.
| Region | Popularity | Context |
|---|---|---|
| United States | High | Education, writing, business |
| United Kingdom | High | Formal writing, emails, education |
| Canada | Moderate | Social media, professional writing |
| Australia | Moderate | Texts, emails, casual writing |
| India | Rising | English learning, online content |
Insight: Searches for “puting” mostly come from learners or those unsure of the spelling. Professionals and native speakers always use putting.
Tips to Remember the Correct Spelling
- Look at the base verb: Put → one syllable, CVC pattern → double the “t.”
- Use “-ing” carefully: Always check the doubling rule for short verbs.
- Practice common verbs: Sit → Sitting, Run → Running, Put → Putting.
- Avoid shortcuts in informal writing: Even texts should have correct spelling.
Quick Trick: If the verb ends in a single consonant after a single vowel and is short, double the final consonant before adding -ing.
FAQs
1. Is “puting” ever correct?
No. In standard English, “puting” is always wrong.
2. Why do people write “puting”?
Because they forget the consonant-doubling rule.
3. Does this rule apply in British and American English?
Yes. Both varieties double the “t” in putting.
4. What other verbs follow this rule?
Sit → Sitting, Run → Running, Plan → Planning.
5. Can I use “puting” in informal writing?
No. Even in casual writing, it’s considered a mistake.
6. How do I remember the correct spelling?
Think: Put → one syllable, vowel + consonant → double the consonant before -ing.
7. Is “putting” used in professional writing?
Yes, in emails, reports, business documents, and academic writing.
Conclusion
The confusion between puting or putting is very common, but the rule is simple. Always write putting with a double “t” when adding -ing.
Remember the CVC doubling rule: if a verb has one syllable, ends in a single vowel followed by a single consonant, double the final consonant before adding -ing.
Using putting correctly improves your writing in emails, essays, reports, and even casual texts. Avoid puting, and your writing will always look professional and accurate.
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