The use of articles can be quite confusing. There are a few basic rules that should be kept in mind while using articles. These rules can help to reduce article mistakes. Here are 10 important rules while using articles in English.
1. | Use A or AN for non-specific nouns Example: An instrument, A Book |
2. | Use A before a consonant sound Example: A Dog, A Car, A Big Screen |
3. | Use An before a vowel sound Example: An Epic Story, An Honest Man, An orange |
4. | Do not use articles with places and nationalities Example: They are Spanish, They travelled to Canada. |
5. | Use THE for specific individual nouns Example: The US president, The bus you take to work. |
6. | Use the correct format with adjectives Example: Article+ adjective + noun, A Big House |
7. | Using THE for specific uncountable nouns Example: The best, The Music |
8. | Use THE with grouped place names Example: The United States, The Republic of Congo |
9. | Do not use articles with abstract ideas Example: Friendship |
10. | Do not use A and AN with uncountable nouns Example: Love, Music |