Proper Usage in Academic Writing Using Its and It’s
Welcome to our guide on using “its” and “it’s” correctly when writing academically. These two words may initially seem confusing; with practice however, you will soon become adept in using both effectively in your writing, providing clear and error-free texts.
What Is the Difference? Its is used as a possessive pronoun, showing belonging. For instance: “The dog wagged its tail.” Conversely, It’s is often seen used to represent “it is” or “it has”. For instance “it is raining outside.”
People frequently make one of the most frequent mistakes by misusing “its.” Remember: if “it” can replace an element from “it has”, use it’s instead. Otherwise use its.
Example(s): At my company we pride ourselves on producing high-quality products. Likewise it has recently begun raining outside. (This) could also mean it has started raining outside too (it).
When to Use “Its”
We use the term “its” when showing possession or ownership; for instance: when we say: “The car lost its wheel.” In such instances, as its wheel belongs to the car and must therefore use this expression of possession in order to demonstrate this relationship between possession/ownership/inherence/belongingness etc.
Examples: Aspen shed its leaves during fall. (it) Computer data was lost during a power outage. (it).
As previously discussed, “it’s” is shorthand for “it is” or “it has,” thus you should use “it’s” when its full phrases can replace its usage in a sentence.
Examples: (it) was clear that the project had been successful. She advised it was now time to commence working on its report (it). (this)
Practice Makes Perfect
To become proficient at using “its” and “it’s” correctly, practice is the only surefire way. Review your writing to identify any instances when the wrong word may have been used, then work toward becoming aware of those differences so as to improve clarity and professionalism within academic writing.
Conclusion Proper usage of “its” and “it’s” in academic writing is crucial to effective and clear communication. By understanding their distinctions and practicing correct usage, you can elevate the quality of your writing while avoiding common blunders. With practice comes naturalness: soon using them correctly will become second nature!
#Its” #Used In Academic Writing”