Chapter 14: Apostrophes: Plural vs. Possessive

Used to indicate the plural form of a word. Example: Dogs -> The dogs' toys were scattered across the yard.

Used to show ownership or possession. Example: Sarah's book is on the table.

Used when a plural noun already ends with an "s" and requires possession. Example: The students' project was well-received.

Avoid using an apostrophe for simple plurals that don't indicate possession. Example: Incorrect: The cats' are playing in the garden. Correct: The cats are playing in the garden.

Used to show possession for a singular noun, add an apostrophe followed by an "s." Example: The boy's bicycle is blue.

Some irregular plural nouns require an apostrophe and "s" for possessive form. Example: The children's toys were scattered around the room.

When two or more people share ownership, only the last noun takes an apostrophe. Example: John and Lisa's car is parked outside.

Apostrophes are also used in contractions to indicate missing letters. Example: They're (they are), can't (cannot), don't (do