EDITING TIPS: Me and I

Today's tip is about a simple mistake we see fairly often: when should you use the pronoun "I", and when should you use "me"?

Double-check if you're using the correct pronoun by dropping the other name from the sentence.

Not sure what we mean by that? Don't worry, here are some handy examples.
Me and Dad watched a movie;
or
Dad and I watched a movie.
If you aren't sure which one is right--or even if you think you know the answer but you'd like to double-check--try dropping the other person from the sentence, like so:
Me watched a movie vs I watched a movie
It suddenly becomes obvious that the second option is correct. (Dad and I watched a movie.)

Let's try a different construction.
Do you want to watch TV with Mom and I?
or
Do you want to watch TV with Mom and me?
This one is trickier, because we don't always use the right construction here in speech. But try dropping the other name again:
Do you want to watch TV with I? vs Do you want to watch TV with me?
Again, the second choice is correct here.

Now, if you'd like to know why this trick works, or what the rule is for figuring out when to use me/I, stay tuned for the grammar.
I functions as a subject noun in the sentence, and should be used just like any other proper noun. I wrote a book.
Me, on the other hand, functions as the object of a verb, either direct or indirect. Me is something that is acted upon. He gave me a book or He gave a book to me. Think of it this way, if it helps: I am active; Me is not.
Now go practice your name-dropping skills, and happy editing!