Apostrophes
Learn how to use apostrophes for contractions, possession, and special cases
What Is an Apostrophe?
An apostrophe (') is a punctuation mark used to show possession, form contractions, and indicate omitted letters or numbers. It helps clarify meaning and avoid confusion in writing.
When to Use Apostrophes
1. Contractions
Use apostrophes to show where letters have been omitted in contractions.
Example: do not → don't, I am → I'm
2. Possession
Use apostrophes to show ownership or possession.
Example: the girl's book, the dogs' owner
3. Plurals of Letters and Numbers
Use apostrophes to form plurals of single letters and sometimes numbers.
Example: Mind your p's and q's. Find all the number 7's.
Apostrophes in Context
It's raining outside. (contraction for "it is")
The cat's toy is under the table. (singular possession)
The students' desks are clean. (plural possession)
Interactive Quiz 1: Apostrophe Usage
Choose where the apostrophe should go:
Its raining outside.
Show Answer
It's raining outside.
The dogs bone is missing.
Show Answer
The dog's bone is missing.
The teachers lounge is open.
Show Answer
The teachers' lounge is open.
Interactive Quiz 2: Correct or Incorrect?
Is the apostrophe used correctly?
Its a beautiful day.
Show Answer
Incorrect. Should be "It's a beautiful day."
The boys' shoes are new.
Show Answer
Correct. Plural possession.
She can't find her keys.
Show Answer
Correct. Contraction for "cannot."
Interactive Quiz 3: Possession vs Plural
Is the apostrophe showing possession or plural?
The cats' toys are everywhere.
Show Answer
Possession (toys belong to multiple cats)
The cat's toy is missing.
Show Answer
Possession (toy belongs to one cat)
The cats are sleeping.
Show Answer
Plural (no apostrophe needed)
Interactive Quiz 4: Create Sentences with Apostrophes
Create sentences using apostrophes:
Contraction: cannot → can't
Show Example
She can't find her book.
Possession: the dog of the boy
Show Example
The boy's dog is playful.
Plural of a letter: more than one "a"
Show Example
There are two a's in "banana."
Important Grammar Rules for Apostrophes
Its vs. It's
"Its" is possessive; "it's" is a contraction for "it is" or "it has."
Plural Possession
Add an apostrophe after the "s" for plural nouns: the girls' room.
No Apostrophe for Plurals
Do not use apostrophes to make regular nouns plural.
Related Topics
Quick Reference
Pro Tip
Apostrophes show ownership and make contractions!