How to use Apostrophes


An apostrophe is a punctuation mark that can be used to show possession or omit words.



1. Omission


He's studying for the test.

He is studying for the test


I can't sleep.

I cannot sleep.


It's fine.

It is fine.




2. Possession



To show a possession, simply use an apostrophe at the end.


The actor's hand was rough.



To make a plural possessive, simply use an apostrophe right after the "s".


Actors' hands are different. 

In case of irregular plural nouns, use —'s.


People's ideas have changed over time.



Words that end in “S”.


a) As a general rule, —'s is used for singular nouns that end with "s".


I would like to visit Paris's museums.

The business's success was the result of his hard work.



b) If a name ends with "s" both usages are fine. (e.g., Mr. Jacksons)

I have Mr. Jacksons's books.


I have Mr. Jacksons' books.



*the SAT has never given students both answer choices in the same question.



Ownership


If two people own the item together, use —'s after the second. 


Daniel and Jane’s house is cozy.

(They own the same house.)



If two people have different ownership, use —'s after each name.


Raymond's and Niguel's cars are expensive.


(They own different cars.)




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