Grammar fix
make an effort
try hard
to try hard to do something, even if it is difficult or you do not feel like it.
collocationB1common
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
She made an effort to arrive on time, even though the traffic was terrible.
In my opinion, students should make an effort to participate in class discussions because it helps them learn more effectively.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: You should do an effort to be on time.
Say: You should make an effort to be on time.
We MAKE an effort, never 'do an effort'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Make an effort' is the everyday phrase; 'endeavour' is formal and a bit old-fashioned in speech.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
make an effort + to
- to be on time
- to listen
- a real effort
- every effort