'I' before 'e' except after 'c' is a common rhyme to help you spell correctly, however it is not that simple. In this summary, you will learn this rule as well as its exceptions.
Spelling rule
The common rule of thumb "'i' before 'e' except after 'c'"covers the correct spelling of many words. This works for words that make a 'ee' sound (like in see and bee).
'I' before 'e'
Examples
Piece
Field
Brief
Except after 'c'
Examples
Receive
Receipt
Exceptions
The rhyme does continue, stating "or when pronounced as 'a' as in neighbour or weigh."