They look very similar, and both come from the verb put, so it is easy to think both spellings are correct. But the truth is simple: only one of them is correct.
This small spelling difference can cause big confusion in writing, emails, exams, and daily English use. In this article, we will explain everything in very easy English, step by step, so you can fully understand the difference on your first read.
By the end, you will never feel confused again between puting and putting.
Quick Answer: Simple and Clear
- Putting ✅ is the correct spelling
- Puting ❌ is incorrect and not a real English word
Correct: I am putting the book on the table.
Incorrect: I am puting the book on the table.
👉 Always use “putting,” never “puting.”
Simple Background: Where Does “Putting” Come From?
The base verb is put.
When we want to:
- show an action happening now, or
- use -ing form,
we add -ing to the verb.
But English has a spelling rule for short verbs with:
- one vowel + one consonant at the end
For such verbs, we double the last consonant before adding -ing.
Examples:
- run → running
- sit → sitting
- cut → cutting
- put → putting
So:
put + ing = putting
This is why puting is wrong.
Clear Explanation of the Difference
Putting (Correct)
Putting is the present participle form of put.
It means:
- placing something somewhere
- moving something into a position
Examples:
- She is putting the phone on silent.
- He is putting his shoes near the door.
- I am putting my ideas into writing.
Puting (Incorrect)
Puting is not a real English word.
It is a spelling mistake.
It happens when learners forget to double the letter “t”.
❌ There is no meaning for puting
❌ It should never be used
Comparison Table: Puting vs Putting
| Feature | Puting ❌ | Putting ✅ |
| Correct spelling | No | Yes |
| Real English word | No | Yes |
| Used in writing | Never | Always |
| Comes from “put” | Wrong form | Correct form |
| Meaning | No meaning | Placing something |
Which One Should You Use and When?
You should always use “putting”.
Use putting when:
- talking about an action happening now
- describing an ongoing action
- using continuous tense
Examples:
- I am putting my bag in the car.
- She is putting sugar in her tea.
- They are putting chairs in the room.
👉 There is no situation where puting is correct.
Common Mistakes People Make
1. Forgetting to double the “t”
Many learners write:
- put + ing = puting ❌
Correct rule:
- put + ing = putting ✅
2. Thinking both spellings are okay
Some people think:
- puting and putting are both fine ❌
But:
- only putting is correct ✅
3. Typing fast and missing one “t”
Fast typing can cause:
- puting ❌
Always double-check your spelling.
4. Copying wrong spelling from social media
Many online posts contain spelling mistakes.
Always trust grammar rules, not random posts.
Everyday Real-Life Examples
Let’s look at daily life situations where putting is used.
In Emails
- I am putting the file in the shared folder.
- She is putting your request in the system.
In School or College
- The teacher is putting marks in the grade book.
- Students are putting their bags under the desk.
In News or Articles
- The government is putting new rules in place.
- The company is putting safety first.
In Social Media
- I am putting my new photo online.
- She is putting her thoughts into words.
In Daily Conversation
- I am putting the keys on the table.
- He is putting food in the fridge.
Short Learning Section for Students and Beginners
Easy Rule to Remember
👉 One vowel + one consonant = double the last letter + ing
Put → putting
Other examples:
- sit → sitting
- run → running
- cut → cutting
- hit → hitting
Memory Trick
Think:
Put has a short sound → double the last letter
So:
put + ing = putting
Never forget the two “t” letters.
FAQ – Simple Questions and Answers
1. Is “puting” a real English word?
No. Puting is not a real word. It is a spelling mistake.
2. Why do we double the “t” in putting?
Because put is a short word ending in one vowel + one consonant, so we double the last letter before adding -ing.
3. Can I ever use “puting”?
No. There is no correct use of puting.
4. What tense is “putting”?
It is used in present continuous tense and also as a verb form.
Example:
- I am putting the book down.
5. Is “putting” used in formal writing?
Yes. Putting is correct for all types of writing — school, work, emails, and formal documents.
6. What is the base form of putting?
The base form is put.
7. Can children learn this rule easily?
Yes. The rule is simple and easy, and with practice, anyone can learn it.
8. Is “putting” used in spoken English too?
Yes. People use putting in daily speaking all the time.
Conclusion
The confusion between puting vs putting is very common, but the rule is simple and easy.
Remember:
- Putting ✅ is correct
- Puting ❌ is wrong
This happens because English spelling rules require us to double the last letter in short verbs like put before adding -ing.
Once you understand this rule, you will:
- write better English
- avoid mistakes
- feel more confident
Keep practicing, read more, and soon putting will feel natural to you.
Now you know the difference clearly — and you will never be confused again! 😊
Daniel Matthew is a passionate visionary who believes in creativity, purpose, and innovation. With a focus on growth and authenticity, he turns every idea into meaningful impact.
