Lesson: it’s versus its

For such a little word, it can cause a lot of trouble—especially when you add an “s” into the equation. (But, please, this is a family friendly blog, so let’s leave the “h” out of it all together.)

There are two types of “it with an s.”

1. its: This word shows possession. Put another way, this word shows that whatever “it” is owns something.

Example: This is its cookie.

2. it’s: This word is a contraction for “it is” or “it has.”

Example: It’s a cookie! (it is)

Example: It’s been great eating that cookie. (it has)

Here’s a test to figure out which form to use: If you can replace your “it with an s” in your sentence with “it is” or “it has,” then use “it’s.” If you can’t, then use “its.”

Example:

The cat is eating its cookie.

Replace “its” with “it is” or “it has.”

The cat is eating [it is/it has] cookie.

Since this sounds funny, you would use “its.” This form shows the cat possesses the cookie.

Let’s test your knowledge with a quiz. Choose “it’s” or “its” to go in the blank.

1. I can’t believe how big _______ cookie is!

2. Now that the cat ate the whole box of cookies, ______ time for him to take a nap.

3. ______ been funny watching that cat eat all those cookies.

Answer key: 1. its 2. it’s (it is) 3. it’s (it has)