Targeted vs Targetted: Which Spelling Is Correct?

Have you ever paused while writing because you weren’t sure whether to use targeted or targetted? You’re not alone. This spelling question confuses students, professionals, bloggers, and even experienced writers. Since both words appear online, it’s easy to wonder if they’re both correct or if one is simply a common mistake.

The good news is that the answer is straightforward once you understand the spelling rules behind the word. In this guide, you’ll learn the difference between targeted and targetted, when to use each spelling, why people mix them up, and how to remember the correct version. You’ll also find practical examples, common mistakes to avoid, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Quick Answer

Targeted is the correct and standard spelling in modern English. Targetted is generally considered a misspelling and is not accepted in standard American or British English dictionaries. Whether you’re writing for school, work, or online content, use targeted.

Why People Confuse It

Many English words double the final consonant before adding -ed, such as:

• Stop → Stopped
• Admit → Admitted
• Regret → Regretted

Because of these examples, some writers assume target should become targetted.

However, target does not follow this pattern. The accepted past tense and past participle form is targeted, with only one t before -ed.

Another reason for the confusion is that misspellings can spread across blogs, forums, and social media, making the incorrect version appear legitimate.

Targeted

Targeted is the correct spelling of the past tense and past participle of the verb target.

It means:

• Directed at a specific person or group
• Focused on a particular goal
• Intended for a certain audience

Examples

• The company targeted young professionals.
• Police targeted the criminal network.
• The campaign targeted local customers.
• Teachers targeted struggling students with extra support.

Targetted

Targetted is generally considered an incorrect spelling in modern English.

Although you may occasionally see it in old documents, online posts, or user generated content, it is not the preferred spelling in standard English.

If you’re writing professionally, academically avoid using targetted.

Comparison Table

Feature	Targeted	Targetted
Correct spelling	✅ Yes	❌ No
Dictionary accepted	✅ Yes	❌ No
American English	✅ Standard	❌ Incorrect
British English	✅ Standard	❌ Incorrect
Suitable for academic writing	✅ Yes	❌ No

When to Use Each

Use targeted when:

• Writing blog articles
• Creating business documents
• Publishing academic papers
• Writing emails
• Preparing marketing campaigns
• Creating advertisements
• Writing resumes
• Producing website content

Avoid targetted because:

• It is considered a spelling mistake.
• It may reduce your writing’s credibility.
• Spell checkers usually flag it as incorrect.
• Search engines and readers expect the standard spelling.

Examples

Here are practical examples using the correct spelling.

• The company targeted new customers through social media.
• Police targeted organized crime.
• Our marketing strategy targeted teenagers.
• The scholarship is targeted at low income families.
• Doctors targeted the infection quickly.
• The campaign targeted frequent travelers.
• The advertisement targeted local businesses.
• Researchers targeted a specific age group.
• The app targeted remote workers.
• Schools targeted literacy improvement programs.
• The government targeted inflation with new policies.
• The training course targeted beginners.

Common Mistakes

Avoid these common errors.

❌ The company targetted young adults.

✅ The company targeted young adults.

❌ Our ads were targetted at students.

✅ Our ads were targeted at students.

❌ She targetted the wrong audience.

✅ She targeted the right audience.

Other mistakes

• Adding an extra t
• Assuming all verbs ending in -et double the final consonant
• Copying incorrect spellings from unreliable websites

Memory Trick

Remember this simple phrase:

One target needs one extra ending—not one extra “t.”

Or think of it this way:

• Target → Targeted ✅
• Never add another t before -ed.

This quick reminder helps prevent one of the most common spelling mistakes.

American vs British English

Unlike many spelling differences between American and British English (such as color/colour or traveled/travelled), there is no regional difference here.

English Variant	Correct Spelling
American English	Targeted
British English	Targeted
Australian English	Targeted
Canadian English	Targeted

All major English varieties use targeted as the standard spelling.

Similar Words

These commonly confused words follow similar spelling patterns:

• Focused vs Focussed
• Modeled vs Modelled
• Labeled vs Labelled
• Traveled vs Travelled
• Canceled vs Cancelled
• Benefited vs Benefitted
• Budgeted vs Budgetted
• Marketing vs Marketting

Learning these pairs can help you recognize when consonants should—or should not—be doubled.

Final Verdict

The correct spelling is targeted.

While targetted occasionally appears online, it is considered a misspelling in modern English. Whether you’re writing for school, business, publishing, or SEO, always choose targeted.

Using the standard spelling improves readability, professionalism, and credibility.

FAQs

Is targetted ever correct?

No. Standard English dictionaries recognize targeted as the correct spelling.

Why do people write targetted?

People mistakenly apply the consonant doubling rule used for words like regretted and admitted.

Is targeted correct in British English?

Yes. Targeted is the accepted spelling in British English.

Is targeted correct in American English?

Yes. American English also uses targeted.

Does Microsoft Word recognize targetted?

Most spell checkers identify targetted as incorrect and recommend targeted.

Can I use targetted in academic writing?

No. Academic and professional writing should always use targeted.

Remember This

✅ Targeted = Correct

❌ Targetted = Incorrect

Whenever you’re unsure, remember:

One word, one extra ending, no extra “t”.

Conclusion

Choosing between targeted and targetted doesn’t have to be confusing. Although the incorrect spelling sometimes appears online, modern English consistently recognizes targeted as the standard form. Using the correct spelling helps your writing appear polished, professional, and trustworthy.

Whether you’re creating blog posts, business documents, academic assignments, or marketing content, stick with targeted every time. It’s the spelling accepted by dictionaries, style guides, and readers worldwide. Keeping this simple rule in mind will help you avoid a common mistake and write with greater confidence.