Aw... yes, sadly I was taught spelling with phonix; not make the rules up as you go. I then spent the early years in a Technical college who's English reqement class resembled my 7th grade English class and darn that was the 90s... I could explain to you however how a Jet engine works? Sadly, like all skills if not used the intricacies of our language fall between the cracks while acquiring other life skills. I would however for sure go back and do a JC, followed by tons of Humanities if only I could relive my early 20s.. uh, wait, not I'd be backpacking Europe but what can you do?
I learned pronunciation via phonix in the 50's. Back
then​, curriculum was a lot different. If you were taught spelling via phonix
then my hat's off to you because I don't find fault with your spelling.
My issue is, if you don't know the difference between simple words like "then and than" and "of and have", how can I trust you with the
big words. You sound like an intelligent young man and my ire is more focused at our failed educational system
than it is toward any individuals. However, I feel it is the duty of this grumpy old fart to correct you wet-behind-the-ears youngins' to realize that you don't really know everything and I am more blunt
than your mother... tact has never been my strong suit.
If you want to be taken seriously and treated like an adult, be accurate in language... ESPECIALLY, the written word.