Apostrophes

Looking to possess apostrophe knowledge pronto? See our apostrophes mechanics module and infographic!

Apostrophes serve two main functions:

1. They indicate where letters or numbers have been omitted in contractions:

• Cannot → can't, do not → don't, it is → it's, etc. (generally discouraged in formal writing)
• 1980s → '80s

2. They create the possessive form of nouns:

• Acemoglu and Robinson's argument
• Canada's and Vietnam's GDPs
• the turbines' output

Keep in mind that apostrophes do not create non-possessive plurals:

• YES: The agreement included the signatories' stipulations.
• NO: The agreement included the signatories stipulations'.
• NO: The agreement included the signatories stipulation's.

Apostrophes Links

• Infographic: "Apostrophe Guidance," GWC
• GWC writing mechanics module: Apostrophes
• Video (4:49): "Introduction to the Apostrophe," Khan Academy
• Exercises: "Meet the Apostrophe," Khan Academy
• Video (2:50): "Apostrophes and Plurals," Khan Academy
• Exercises: "Apostrophes and Plurals," Khan Academy
• Handout: "Possessives," UNC Charlotte