Yes, there are rules on use "as if" and "like" correctly. The English language has rules for everything. Once you learn the parts of speech and preferred usage, it all makes sense. For young and old alike, there's a learning curve, so be patient with yourself and keep plugging away. If you are a writer, keep the reference books handy, of course.
Instructions
1. Know that "like" is a preposition and "as if," when properly used, is a conjunction, and never the twain shall meet. That's what Rudyard Kipling said once anyhow.
2. Use "like" when an is object involved. For instance: "It looks like snow."
3. Use "as if" as a conjunction. Here is an example: "It looks as if it will snow." This part of speech expresses flow and connectivity. It is a joiner.
4. Watch for mistakes and mix-ups people have with these words. Here is an example of use "like" for "as if" incorrectly: "It looks like it will snow today."
5. Understand the correct and distinct uses of these words. Again, "like" is a preposition, and it shows relationship or similar characteristic. Not all prepositions are equal. That is what's nice about English. It's a language that can convey intricate and precise meaning.
6. Learn about conjunctions. There are two kinds, coordinating and subordinating. Coordinating conjunctions connect two independent clauses that can stand alone as complete sentences. Subordinating conjunctions connect an independent clause with a dependent clause (a clause that cannot stand alone). "As if" is a subordinating conjunction.
