Articles

Articles in English are complicated, and there are many rules for their use. However, learning a few general rules about the use of the articles is helpful; the logic of these rules can be transferred to most uses of the article. In addition to learning the rules, you can gain a good working use of the articles through reading and listening. Remember that the article is not stressed, so don't listen for its full value! Also, ask native speakers to help you when you don't know whether or not to use the article. 

NUMBER	INDEFINITE	DEFINITE
Singular	a / an	the
Plural	nothing	the
Non-Count	nothing	the

Articles Rule 1: With singular count nouns, use 'a' if indefinite or "the" if definite. 


My daughter wants to buy a dog this weekend. (Indefinite-It could be any dog) 
The dog in the backyard is very cute.(Definite- The one in the backyard) 


Examples 

1. He requested a puppy for his birthday.
2. He wanted the puppy he played with at the pet shop.
3. She ordered a hamburger without onions.
4. Did you drink the coke I just ordered? 




Articles Rule 2: With plural count nouns use either "the" or nothing, never 'a'. 

1.Come and look at the children. (definite)
2.Children are always curious. (indefinite)
3.She loves flowers. (indefinite)
4.The flowers in her garden are beautiful. (definite)
5.Do you like reading grammar rules?
6.Do you like reading the grammar rules on this page? 




Articles Rule 3: With non-count nouns, use either "the" or nothing. 

He has experience. (if indefinite or mentioned for the first time) 
He has the experience necessary for the job. (if definite or mentioned before) 

1.The medicine the doctor prescribed had unpleasant side effects.
2.Writing in a second language is especially challenging.
3.Have you studied the history of South Africa?
4.History reminds us that events repeat themselves. 



Articles Rule 4: If a plural or non-count noun is followed by [of + noun], "the" is preferred. 

1.The languages of Asia are unrelated to English.
2.The wines of France are famous.
3.The birds of North America are beautiful.
4.X Museum of Art is having X exhibit of the paintings of Picasso.