'z' or 's' - I'm confused or confuzed!

I am sure that when I was a child, 'z' was used more often in some relevant words than it is today. The use of 's' has crept into the language.

BUT, never in the word 'confuse'. That has always been spelt with an 's'. I feel pretty certain of that.

"Whoreson zed, thou unnecessary letter!" Shakespear?

If your are quoting from an academic book you will need to use what the book uses and reference in the manner approved by your academic institution.

It is simpler to use the "s" as it is nearly always correct whereas "z" could be wrong. Unless it is a word like "prize" which is obvious there is always an element of doubt. The main thing is to be consistent, I think.

My problem at the moment is writing academic (sort of) assignments and I'm rather afraid I beginning to use both at the same time - it's driving me nuts.
Also academic books consistently use 'z'. However, some people on the course use 's'!

I think the "z" is actually older British. Both are acceptable but I think the "s" is a more modern usage. When I was a young typist (a long time go) the "z" was considered a bit old hat.

I agree Greenfinch, that's my understanding. I don't like the 'z'!

I've always thought "z" was American English and "s" is British English but while both are acceptable the "s" is more natural to us in UK.