When do I use "to" in a sentence?

[salt&pepper]

I'm not too sure when i should add in "to"
For example:
"Could you help me cook?" or "Could you help me to cook?"
"Could you help me carry my books?" or "Could you help me to carry my books?"
Is there a difference between the sentences?

Are both sentence alright to be used?

 

[5jj]

HELP is one of the rare verbs in English which can be followed by a bare infinitive or a to- infinitive with no difference in meaning. The bare infinitive used to be accepted in AmE only, but it is now common in BrE as well.

 

[salt&pepper]

Does that mean that it's fine to use either way?
Meaning the 2 sentences: "Could you help me take a look" and "Could you help me take a look" are both correct?

 

[5jj]

Yes