what is the difference between "trabaja" and "trabajo"?

Question

I just finished lesson 2.1 but i'm confused because she uses both "trabaja" and "trabajo" in multiple places. So i want to know if there is a rule for using the words correctly.

Answer 1

trabajo can either be a noun or the 1st person singular, present tense, indicative mood conjugation of trabajar. (I work, I am working, I do work))

trabaja would be the 3rd person, singular, present tense, indicative mood conjugation of trabajar. (he/she/it works) or 2nd person, singular, formal (you work)

trabajar conjugated

trabajo...noun

Answer 2

Trabaja -- he/she/it works

Jose trabaja en la tienda. -- Jose works in the store.

Trabajo --- as a noun means "a job" as a verb it means "I work."

Tengo un trabajo, y trabajo los sábados -- I have a job, and I work on Saturdays.

Answer 3

A great example of the value of context. Listening (or watching) for articles will give you clues to expect nouns and hearing (or seeing) pronouns will alert you to verbs.