How to Use Articles in English: A, An, and The

Description: Articles (a, an, the) are tricky for learners. Learn rules, examples, and common mistakes with English articles.

Introduction

Articles cause trouble for many learners, especially those whose languages don’t use them. Let’s learn the rules for a, an, and the.

Rule 1: A / An (Indefinite Articles)

• Use: Before singular countable nouns (not specific).
• a before consonant sounds: a dog, a university (/juː/).
• an before vowel sounds: an apple, an hour (silent h).

Rule 2: The (Definite Article)

• Use: Before specific or known nouns.
• The sun rises in the east.
• The book on the table is mine.

Rule 3: No Article

• Before plural/general nouns: Dogs are friendly.
• Before proper nouns: Vietnam, Mount Everest.

Common Mistakes

• ❌ She is teacher. → ✔ She is a teacher.
• ❌ I like the cats. (means specific cats) → ✔ I like cats.
• ❌ The Mount Everest → ✔ Mount Everest.

Practice Plan

• Day 1: Write 10 a/an sentences.
• Day 2: Write 10 the-sentences.
• Day 3: Write 10 sentences with no article.
• Day 4: Mix all in a short story.
• Day 5: Read an article, highlight all article uses.

Conclusion

Articles depend on whether the noun is general/specific, singular/plural. With practice, usage becomes natural.