Except / Except for

Except

1) They do nothing except complain all the time.
2) The weather was good except in the east.
3) He's not very friendly except when he needs help.
4) I have no answer to his criticism, except to blame the management.

Except for

1) There was complete silence except for the sound of someone whispering.
2) Except for John, the boys were enthusiastic about the party.

Except / except for

1) They did all their homework except / except for English.
2) Everyone was there except / except for Sam.