How to use apostrophes to indicate possession. Time periodsWhere the time period modifies a noun, use an apostrophe. Examples Two days’ time12 years’ imprisonment Where the time period modifies an adjective, do not use an apostrophe. Examples Six months pregnantTen years old Singular possessiveWhere an object or objects belong to one person or thing, the apostrophe goes before the s. Example The University’s halls of residence. The one exception to this rule is the word its. Example The book was old and its cover was in tatters. Plural possessiveWhere an object or objects belong to more than one person or thing, then the apostrophe goes after the s. Example Both players’ injuries were visible in the x-ray. Where plural nouns that do not end in s are used (such as children, women, or sheep) the apostrophe goes before the s. Example The women’s minibus runs until 11pm. Proper nouns ending in sSingular proper nouns ending in s follow the rule of writing what is voiced. Example Keats’s poetry. It is acceptable to omit the additional s provided your approach is consistent. Examples Dickens’ Great ExpectationsWelles’ Citizen Kane. If the s is soft, omit the s in writing. Example Rabelais’ writings. The s is usually omitted when the last syllable is pronounced ‘iz’ and in the names of the ancients, except for ‘Jesus.’ Examples Moses’ scripturesSocrates’ philosophiesAchilles’ heelJesus’s disciples PluralsDo not use an apostrophe in plurals Write: The 1960s3 As at A level Do not write: the 1960’s3 A’s at A level An exception to this is if you are indicating the plural of single letters. Example Crossing the t’s and dotting the i’s. This article was published on Monday 7 September 2026
