Question

When you move something at a constant velocity to the right on a surface with friction is the work being done zero because you do work but the friction does negative work so it cancels out?

Answer 1

but then when you lift something there is positive work? why? Shouldn't it also be zero

Answer 2

Net work is zero, yes.

Answer 3

but then when you lift something there is positive work? why? Shouldn't it also be zero

you have increased it's potential energy.

Answer 4

When you lift something against gravity at constant speed, the work of the force you are applying will be positive and weight's work will be negative. Net work is zero as well.