Preparatory 'it' as object

• We use preparatory 'it' when a complex object (like a clause or infinitive phrase) follows an adjective or noun. Instead of placing the heavy clause directly after the verb, we put 'it' in the object position and move the long clause to the end.
• Pattern
• Verb / Phrase
• Example
• Verb + it + adjective + to-infinitive
• make it clear that… / find it hard to… / consider it essential to…
• Apex Logistics in Denver makes it clear that safety comes first.
• Verb + it + noun + to-infinitive
• owe it to…
• We owe it to our drivers in Chicago to protect them.
• Verb + it + adjective + that-clause
• take it for granted that…
• Many in London take it for granted that profits matter more.
• Remember
• Use 'it' as a dummy object after verbs like find, consider, make, owe, and take.
• Place adjectives or nouns directly after the dummy 'it' before the infinitive or clause.
• Do not omit 'it' when the real object is a long clause or to-infinitive phrase.
• Examples
• The board in Boston finds it hard to balance speed and safety.
• We consider it essential to invest in safety across every terminal.
• Management takes it for granted that safety rules will be followed.
• We owe it to our team in Dallas to eliminate risky pressures.
• Common mistakes
• Apex finds hard to ignore driver fatigue in Seattle.
• Apex finds it hard to ignore driver fatigue in Seattle.
• We owe to our drivers in Atlanta keeping them safe.
• We owe it to our drivers in Atlanta to keep them safe.

Complete the sentences

• Directors in Chicago (make clear) ____ safety is non-negotiable.
• The fleet manager in Denver (find hard) ____ accept reckless driving habits.
• We must (consider essential) ____ protect every single driver.
• Executives in Boston (owe) ____ to enforce strict fatigue policies.
• Analysts in London (take for granted) ____ carriers prioritize profits.
• The CEO in Atlanta (make clear) ____ zero tolerance saves lives.

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