To vs. Too vs. Two: What's the Difference?
Quick Answer
to = preposition (go to) or infinitive marker (want to eat)
too = also / excessively (me too, too loud)
two = the number 2
Explanation
TO
1. Preposition of direction/purpose
2. Infinitive marker (to + verb)
"Go to school."
"I want to sleep."
"from 9 to 5"
TOO
1. Also / as well
2. Excessively / more than enough
"I want some too." (also)
"Too hot to drink." (excessive)
"Too much sugar."
TWO
The number 2 — always
"Two tickets please."
"Two hours later."
"one or two days"
Memory tip: Too has an extra "o" because it means extra or also. Two starts with "tw" like "twelve" and "twenty" — numbers. When in doubt and it's not a number or "extra/also", use to.
Examples
Common Mistakes
Incorrect: This soup is to hot to eat.
Correct: This soup is too hot to eat. (too = excessively)
Incorrect: I bought too books at the store.
Correct: I bought two books at the store. (two = the number 2)
Practice
Fill in the blanks:
"I need _____ more days _____ finish the project. My colleague wants _____ help _____ ."