Apostrophe Usage

Writers may forget to use apostrophes or may use them incorrectly. Apostrophes are used to (a) indicate possession or ownership and (b) to form a contraction. If the noun is singular, place the apostrophe before the “s”. If the noun is plural, the apostrophe is placed after the “s”.

Tip: 

Make the noun plural first and then show possession.

• Incorrect: I borrowed Jordans book before the test.
• Correct: I borrowed Jordan’s book before the test.

• Incorrect: I copied Susans’ notes from class.
• Correct: I copied Susan’s notes from class.

• Incorrect: There are many students cars illegally parked in the neighbouring subdivision.
• Correct: There are many students’ cars illegally parked in the neighbouring subdivision.

• Incorrect: Susans going to the store for me.
• Correct: Susan’s going to the store for me.
• Correct: Susan is going to the store for me.

 

For more information, view the Apostrophe Tip Sheet.