Understanding Its and It’s: Easy Tips and Examples

Understanding Its and It’s: Easy Tips and Examples

The Difference Between “Its” and “It’s”

Many people get confused between “its” and “it’s,” but they are different words with different uses. Let’s learn about them!

History of the Words

The word “its” is a possessive pronoun. This means it shows that something belongs to something else. “It’s” is a contraction, meaning it shortens two words into one. “It’s” stands for “it is” or “it has.”

How to Use “Its”

“Its” does not have an apostrophe. You use “its” when you want to show that something belongs to “it” (a thing or an animal).

• The cat licked its paw.
• The tree lost its leaves.
• The book is missing its cover.
• The car needs its oil changed.
• The dog wagged its tail.

How to Use “It’s”

“It’s” has an apostrophe and is a short way to say “it is” or “it has.” Use “it’s” when you can replace it with “it is” or “it has”.

• It’s a sunny day today. (It is a sunny day today.)
• It’s been a long time since we met. (It has been a long time since we met.)
• It’s going to rain soon. (It is going to rain soon.)
• It’s my favorite movie. (It is my favorite movie.)
• It’s always fun to play outside. (It is always fun to play outside.)

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember, “it’s” with an apostrophe can be replaced by “it is” or “it has.” If you can’t replace the word with “it is” or “it has,” then use “its” without an apostrophe.

Summary

Use “its” to show possession, like the dog’s bone or the cat’s whiskers. Use “it’s” when you’re saying “it is” or “it has,” like “It’s cold outside” or “It’s been fun.” Practice with these sentences, and you will remember the difference!