The “ch” and “tch” spelling rule helps decide when to use “ch” or “tch” for the /ch/ sound at the end of a word. Here’s the rule: Rule: Use “tch” after a short vowel in a one-syllable word. Use “ch” after everything else — including long vowels, consonants, or vowel teams. ⸻ Examples: Use “tch”: • match • fetch • pitch • hutch (Each of these has a short vowel sound before the /ch/.) Use “ch”: • beach (vowel team) • coach (vowel team) • rich (not a short vowel before the /ch/) • branch (consonant