The 1-1-1 rule is a spelling rule that determines when to double a final consonant in a one-syllable word before adding a vowel suffix like -ing or -ed.
Understanding the 1-1-1 Rule
The 1-1-1 rule states that in a one-syllable word that ends in a single consonant preceded by a single vowel, you must double the final consonant before adding a suffix that begins with a vowel.
Here is a more detailed breakdown:
- 1 Syllable: The word must have only one syllable.
- 1 Vowel: The single vowel in the word must be a short vowel sound (also called a "lax" vowel). Examples include the vowel sounds in cat, bed, sit, top, and cut.
- 1 Consonant: The word must end with only one consonant.
How the 1-1-1 Rule Works
When the 1-1-1 rule applies, you will double the last consonant before adding a suffix like -ing or -ed.
Examples Where You DO Double
| Base Word | Explanation | Applying the Rule | New Word |
|---|---|---|---|
| hop | 1 syllable, short vowel 'o', 1 consonant 'p' | Double the 'p', add 'ing' | hopping |
| stop | 1 syllable, short vowel 'o', 1 consonant 'p' | Double the 'p', add 'ed' | stopped |
| run | 1 syllable, short vowel 'u', 1 consonant 'n' | Double the 'n', add 'ing' | running |
| swim | 1 syllable, short vowel 'i', 1 consonant 'm' | Double the 'm', add 'er' | swimmer |
Examples Where You DO NOT Double
| Base Word | Explanation | Applying the Rule | New Word |
|---|---|---|---|
| read | 1 syllable, but a long vowel sound 'ea' | Do not double. | reading |
| park | 1 syllable, 1 vowel sound, but two consonants | Do not double. | parking |
| light | 1 syllable, multiple consonants after the single vowel | Do not double. | lighting |
| jump | 1 syllable, 1 vowel, two consonants at the end | Do not double | jumping |
| talk | 1 syllable, 1 vowel, two consonants at the end | Do not double | talked |
Note about suffixal consonants
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The rule applies only for suffixes starting with a vowel (-ing, -ed, -er, etc).
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When adding a suffix that starts with a consonant such as -tion, the final consonant is not doubled.
-
Example: omit becomes omission (no doubled t)
Summary of the 1-1-1 Rule
In summary, the 1-1-1 rule is a simple yet crucial guide for correct spelling, especially when adding suffixes. Remembering this rule will help you double the final consonant when necessary and avoid errors.
