INDEFINITE ARTICLES

INDEFINITE ARTICLES

Imagine stepping into a library full with books. You approach a random one, not knowing its title or author. Indefinite articles like "a" and "an" help you introduce this unknown book: "I see a book on the table." They indicate "one" of something, but not a specific one.

The Power of "A" and "An":

• "A" is used before words starting with consonant sounds: a book, a dog, a house
• "An" is used before words starting with vowel sounds (including silent "h"): an apple, an hour, an honor

Key Points

• Indefinite articles mark singular, countable nouns.
• They don't indicate anything specific about the noun.
• Choose "a" before consonant sounds, "an" before vowel sounds (including silent "h").
• Use them effectively to introduce new information or non-specific entities in academic writing.

Examples

• "The scientist discovered a new element."
• " The company is making an innovative product."
• "This research proposes a framework for further investigation."