Example of debate writing (3)

 

3. ‘Private cars should be banned in the congested commercial areas of the cities/ Write a debate in 150-200 words either for or against the motion. (Delhi 2017)

Answer: (In exam write any one of the following answers)

In favour:-

Congested commercial areas in cities face heavy traffic, pollution, and noise. Many believe that banning private cars in these areas can help solve these problems. This idea has strong support for various reasons.

In favor of banning private cars, it can significantly reduce traffic jams. Commercial areas are crowded with shoppers, workers, and delivery vehicles. When private cars add to this, it causes severe congestion. Without private cars, the roads would be less crowded, allowing essential vehicles to move more easily.

Moreover, banning private cars can lower pollution levels. Fewer cars on the road means less air pollution, which is better for the environment and public health. It can also reduce noise pollution, making the area more pleasant for people.

Another benefit is improved public transport and walkability. When cars are restricted, cities can focus on developing better public transport and creating more pedestrian-friendly spaces. This makes it easier for everyone to get around without the need for private vehicles.

In conclusion, banning private cars in congested commercial areas can lead to less traffic, reduced pollution, and a more efficient and pleasant urban experience.

Thank You!

Against:-

Congested commercial areas in cities are often busy with traffic, people, and businesses. Some suggest banning private cars in these areas to reduce congestion. However, there are strong arguments against this idea.

Private cars provide convenience and flexibility. Many people rely on their cars to travel quickly and comfortably, especially for work or shopping. Banning cars would make it difficult for them to reach these areas easily. Public transport may not always be reliable or available for everyone.

Additionally, banning private cars could hurt local businesses. Many customers prefer to drive to commercial areas for shopping or dining. If cars are banned, businesses might lose customers who find it inconvenient to visit without their vehicles. This could harm the local economy.

Moreover, private cars are essential for people with special needs, elderly individuals, or those carrying heavy items. For them, public transport may not be a practical option.

In conclusion, while reducing traffic is important, banning private cars in congested areas could cause more inconvenience than benefits. It could harm businesses and limit the mobility of many people. A better solution would be improving traffic management and public transport without banning private cars altogether.

Thank You!

Example of debate writing (2)

 

2. ‘Rising prices can be controlled only by the government.’ Write a debate in 150-200 words either for or against the motion. (Delhi 2016)

Answer: (In exam write any one of the following answers)

In favour :-

Rising prices are a major concern for any country. They affect the daily lives of people, especially the poor and middle class. Many believe that controlling rising prices can only be done by the government, as it has the power and resources to address the issue.

In favor of this argument, the government has the authority to regulate key economic factors. It can control inflation by adjusting interest rates and managing the money supply. Through these measures, it can stabilize the economy and bring prices down.

The government can also impose price controls on essential goods such as food, fuel, and medicines. By doing this, it ensures that these basic needs remain affordable for everyone, even during times of crisis.

Moreover, the government can take action against hoarding and black marketing. Strict laws and enforcement can prevent unethical practices that drive prices up.

Additionally, the government can provide subsidies to reduce the burden of rising prices on consumers. In conclusion, only the government has the authority and tools to manage the complex factors that cause prices to rise. Therefore, government intervention is crucial in controlling inflation and keeping prices in check.

Thank You!

Against:-

Rising prices are a serious issue that affects everyone. Many believe that only the government can control rising prices. However, this is not entirely true. Other factors, like market forces and public behavior, also play a big role in controlling prices.

In arguing against the idea, it's important to note that the government cannot control all aspects of the economy. Prices are often driven by supply and demand. When demand is higher than supply, prices rise. Businesses, farmers, and producers also need to take steps to increase production and improve supply. This helps keep prices stable.

Consumers also have a role. If people buy wisely and avoid panic buying, it can prevent unnecessary price hikes. Public awareness and responsible buying habits can help control prices as much as government policies.

Furthermore, global factors, such as oil prices or international trade, impact local prices. The government has limited control over these. Market competition can also lower prices. When businesses compete, they often reduce prices to attract customers.

In conclusion, rising prices are influenced by many factors beyond just government control. The combined efforts of producers, consumers, and market forces are equally important.

Thank You!

Example of debate writing (1)

 

1) ‘The policy of reservation of seats for admission to the professional courses is good for the deprived sections of society’. Write a debate in 150-200 words either for or against the motion. (Delhi 2016)
Answer:   (In exam write any one of the following answers)

In favour:-

The policy of reserving seats for admission to professional courses is a way to ensure equal opportunities for the deprived sections of society. Many people from disadvantaged backgrounds have been historically marginalized and denied access to quality education. This reservation policy helps bridge that gap by giving them a fair chance to compete.

In favor of the policy, it is important to recognize that not everyone starts from the same level in society. Some groups have faced economic, social, and educational challenges for generations. Without reservations, they may struggle to gain access to prestigious courses that lead to better careers. The policy helps uplift these sections by providing them with opportunities that they might not otherwise have.

Moreover, reservation ensures diversity in educational institutions, allowing students from different backgrounds to learn together. This enriches the learning experience for everyone. It also helps build a more inclusive society where everyone has the chance to succeed, regardless of their background.

In conclusion, the reservation of seats for deprived sections is not just a policy of inclusion but one of justice, giving those who have been left behind the opportunity to advance in life.

 Thank You!

Against:-

The policy of reserving seats for admission to professional courses is meant to help the deprived sections of society. However, there are strong arguments against it, as it may not always lead to the intended results and could create other problems.

One major issue with the reservation policy is that it can compromise merit. Professional courses require a high level of skill and knowledge, and admitting students based on reserved seats rather than merit may result in less qualified professionals. This could affect the quality of professionals in critical fields like medicine and engineering.

Additionally, reservation can create a sense of inequality among students. Those admitted through general seats may feel unfairly treated, which can lead to division and resentment. The policy can also encourage dependency rather than self-reliance, as students may come to rely on reservations instead of striving to compete on equal terms.

Lastly, reservations do not always reach the truly needy. Often, it benefits those who are already somewhat privileged within the deprived sections, leaving the most disadvantaged behind. Therefore, while the policy aims to help, it can sometimes lead to unintended negative consequences.

 Thank You!

Debate Writing

1. What is Debate Writing?

Debate writing is the process of preparing arguments for a debate. It helps people express their views clearly and persuasively. In debate writing, you present your side of an issue and support it with facts. You also address opposing views. This helps strengthen your argument.

A typical debate piece has three main parts. First, there is an introduction. It states the topic and your position. Next, the main body presents your arguments. Each argument should be clear and backed by evidence. Finally, the conclusion summarizes your points and reinforces your stance.

Good debate writing requires practice. You need to think critically and anticipate counterarguments. Clarity is key. Use simple language and structure your ideas logically. This makes it easier for your audience to understand. Overall, debate writing is a valuable skill. It improves your ability to communicate and engage with important topics.

2. The Importance of Debate Writing?

Debate writing is a valuable skill. It helps people express their thoughts clearly. It also teaches them to think critically about different issues. The importance of debate writing lies in its ability to develop key skills.

First, debate writing enhances communication skills. It requires writers to present their ideas in a clear and persuasive way. This is important in many areas of life, from school to the workplace.

Second, it encourages research and analysis. Writers must gather facts and understand different viewpoints. This process builds knowledge and helps people become well-informed.

Third, debate writing fosters confidence. Writing and presenting arguments can boost self-esteem. It prepares individuals for speaking in public and defending their ideas.

Additionally, debate writing promotes open-mindedness. Writers learn to consider opposing views. This encourages respectful dialogue and understanding among people with different opinions.

In summary, debate writing is important because it improves communication, research skills, and confidence. It also fosters critical thinking and open-mindedness. These skills are essential for success in many aspects of life.

3.  Format

a)       Formal Address

b)       Introduction: Against or For the motion

c)       Arguments/ Logic ( main body)

d)       Conclusion or final remark.

e)       Thanks

4. Important points

• Debate must include a Formal Address in the beginning and a Formal Thanks in the end.
• Argument or logic given must be well organized and relevant to the topic. There should be creativity in presenting the ideas.
• Logical accuracy, Grammatical accuracy, appropriate words & spelling, Fluency and relevance of ideas and style are utmost important.

5. Some Examples

Question 1.
Write a debate either for or against the motion: ‘Courses in Humanities provide a better scope in career than Sciences’. (Comptt. All India 2017)

Answer: (In exam write any one of the following answers)

In favour of:

In today’s changing world, choosing the right field of study is crucial for future success. I believe that courses in the humanities offer better career opportunities than those in the sciences.

Humanities subjects, like psychology, history, and sociology, teach valuable skills such as critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication. These skills are highly sought after by employers in many industries, including marketing, education, and public relations.

Additionally, as the job market evolves, there is a growing need for adaptable professionals who can understand and solve social issues. While science careers can be rewarding, they are often more specialized and may limit job options. In contrast, a humanities education prepares students for a wide range of roles, making it easier to find fulfilling work in various fields. Overall, humanities courses provide a broader and more flexible career path.

Thank you!

You can also write against the given topic as given below.

 While Humanities courses offer valuable insights into human culture, society, and critical thinking, arguing that they provide better career scope than Sciences overlooks several key factors. The world today is driven by technological advancements, scientific innovations, and the demand for specialized skills, all of which are heavily rooted in science-based education.

First, careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) are expanding rapidly, with high demand across industries like healthcare, IT, engineering, and environmental sciences. These fields offer not only a wider range of job opportunities but also higher salaries, job stability, and continuous growth prospects. In contrast, many careers in Humanities often face challenges like lower wages and fewer job openings.

Additionally, the versatility of science degrees allows individuals to branch into various sectors, including research, academia, industry, and government, making the scope broader and more dynamic. The global economy increasingly relies on scientific expertise to solve pressing issues like climate change, healthcare crises, and technological innovation.

While Humanities offer important skills in communication, critical thinking, and creativity, Science courses align more directly with the needs of modern economies and provide better long-term career prospects and growth opportunities.

Thank you!

Question 2.
Some people feel that electronic media (TV news) will bring about the end of print media (newspapers). What are your views on the issue? Write a debate in 150-200 words either for or against this view. (All India 2015)

Answer:  (In exam write any one of the following answers)

Against:

Some people believe that electronic media (TV news) will bring about the end of the print media (newspaper). I, XYZ, disagree with this view.

The rise of electronic media, especially TV news, has sparked discussions about the future of print media, particularly newspapers. While some argue that the convenience and immediacy of digital formats will render print obsolete, this perspective overlooks several crucial factors that highlight the enduring value of print.

Firstly, print newspapers offer a tactile experience and a sense of permanence that digital formats cannot replicate. Many readers appreciate the ritual of flipping through pages, which can enhance engagement and comprehension.

Moreover, print media provides in-depth analysis that often gets sidelined in fast-paced TV news segments. Newspapers allow for nuanced reporting, investigative journalism, and comprehensive storytelling, which are vital for an informed public.

Additionally, print media has a loyal audience, particularly among older demographics who may not be as comfortable with digital platforms. Even in the age of technology, many people value the reliability and credibility associated with established newspapers.

In conclusion, rather than signaling the end of print media, electronic platforms are more likely to coexist with it, catering to diverse preferences and ensuring that quality journalism continues to thrive in various formats.

Thank you!

You can also write in favour of as given below.

With the rise of electronic media, many people believe that traditional print media, like newspapers, might eventually disappear. TV news, online platforms, and mobile apps have become the primary sources of information for most people. This shift in how we consume news has sparked a debate about whether print media can survive in the digital age.

In favor of the argument that electronic media will lead to the end of print media, it's clear that technology and consumer habits are changing rapidly. TV news and online platforms offer instant access to information, making newspapers seem slow and less relevant. The convenience of electronic media allows people to access news anytime, anywhere, without waiting for the next day's paper.

Moreover, electronic media is more eco-friendly, reducing the need for paper and printing. Advertisers also prefer digital platforms because they offer targeted ads and better tracking. Lastly, the multimedia features of electronic news—such as live videos and interactive elements—provide a richer experience, especially for younger audiences. As technology advances, print media may gradually fade away, replaced by faster, more dynamic electronic news sources.

6. For more examples also see:-

1) ‘The policy of reservation of seats foradmission to the professional courses is good for the deprived sections of society’. Write a debate in 150-200 words either for or against the motion.(Delhi 2016)

2) ‘Rising prices can be controlled only by thegovernment.’ Write a debate in 150-200 words either for or against the motion.(Delhi 2016)

3) ‘Private cars should be banned in the congestedcommercial areas of the cities/ Write a debate in 150-200 words either for oragainst the motion. (Delhi 2017)

4) Consumerism is increasing day by day. Luxuries of yesterday have become necessities of today. The result is that the more we want the more miserable we become. Write a debate in 150-200 words on ‘The only way to minimise human suffering and pain is to control our needs’. You are Navtej/Navita. (All India 2015)

5) Write a debate either for or against the motion: Hardwork, not Intelligence paves the way to success in life. (Comptt. All India 2017)

6) Write a debate either for or against the motion:Laziness and not bad luck is the only obstacle in one’s success inlife.(Comptt. Delhi 2017)

7) Write a debate either for or against the motion:‘Participation in sports is a mere wastage of time’. (150-200 avoids).

 8) ‘Our large population is not a cause of poverty but anasset, a resource.’ Write a debate in 150-200 words either for or against themotion. (Delhi 2017)

9) The government has banned the use of animals in thelaboratories for the purpose of dissection. Write a debate in 150-200words\either for or against this decision. (All India 2015)

10) Migration from villages to cities has led to thespread of urban slums. People living in these slums lead a miserable life.Economic disparity leads to the problems of law and order. Write a debate in150-200 words on ‘Solution to the problem of misery in the urban slums lies increating jobs in the villages’. You are Navtej/Navita. (All India 2015)

8. Here are 20 topics for debate writing practice. 

You should practices in favour of and also

 against each topic.:

1. Should school uniforms be mandatory?
2. Is social media more harmful than beneficial?
3. Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
4. Is animal testing justified for scientific research?
5. Should college education be free for everyone?
6. Is climate change the biggest threat to humanity?
7. Should governments regulate junk food advertising?
8. Is technology making us less human?
9. Should the death penalty be abolished?
10. Is homeschooling better than traditional schooling?
11. Should businesses be required to provide paid parental leave?
12. Is the current immigration system effective?
13. Should recreational marijuana be legalized?
14. Is it ethical to use artificial intelligence in the workplace?
15. Should the government invest more in renewable energy?
16. Is online education as effective as in-person education?
17. Should sports betting be legalized?
18. Is privacy more important than national security?
19. Should public libraries be funded by taxpayers?
20. Is a four-day workweek beneficial for productivity?

These topics can lead to engaging debates and encourage critical thinking!

Poetic Devices

 

Poetic Devices

Poetry, with its rhythmic patterns, often employs various poetic devices to convey emotions, to create vibrant pictures, and improve the overall impact of the Poem.

These devices range from sound-based techniques to figurative language. They add depth and beauty to poetry.

Here are some important poetic devices.

1. Simile: A simile is a figure of speech that compares two different things using the words "like" or "as." It creates vivid imagery by drawing parallels between unrelated objects or ideas. Example: "Her smile was as bright as the sun."

2. Metaphor: A metaphor is a figure of speech that directly equates one thing with another, suggesting a similarity between them without using "like" or "as." Example: "The world is a stage."

3. Personification: Personification is a literary device that attributes human characteristics to inanimate objects, animals, or abstract concepts, enhancing their vividness and emotional impact. Example: "The trees whispered secrets in the wind."

4. Hyperbole: Hyperbole is an exaggerated statement or claim not meant to be taken literally, used for emphasis or effect. Example: "I've told you a million times."

5. Alliteration: Alliteration is the repetition of initial consonant sounds in a series of words within close proximity, creating a rhythmic effect and enhancing the musicality of language. Example: "Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers."

6. Assonance: Assonance is the repetition of vowel sounds within close proximity in a series of words, contributing to the musicality and rhythm of poetry. Example: "The rain in Spain falls mainly on the plain."

7. Onomatopoeia: Onomatopoeia is the use of words that imitate or suggest the sounds they describe, adding sensory detail and enhancing the auditory experience. Example: "The bees buzzed around the flowers."

8. Imagery: Imagery refers to descriptive language that appeals to the senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, smell), creating vivid mental images for the reader. Example: "The golden sunset painted the sky with hues of orange and pink."

9. Symbolism: Symbolism is the use of symbols to represent ideas, concepts, or emotions, adding layers of meaning and depth to poetry. Example: The dove symbolizes peace and freedom.

10. Irony: Irony is the use of words to convey a meaning that is opposite to their literal interpretation, often used to create humor or emphasize a point. Example: "The fire station burned down."

2) More examples to acquire a deeper understanding.

1. Simile:

1.   Her laughter was like music to his ears.

2.   The stars twinkled like diamonds in the night sky.

3.   The clouds drifted by as slowly as turtles.

4.   Her eyes sparkled like precious gems in the sunlight.

5.   His voice was as smooth as silk.

2. Metaphor:

1.   Time is a thief stealing moments from our lives.

2.   The city streets are rivers flowing with cars.

3.   Love is a battlefield, a tug-of-war between hearts.

4.   Life is a journey with many twists and turns.

5.   Her smile was a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day.

3. Personification:

1.   The flowers danced in the gentle breeze.

2.   The moon whispered secrets to the night sky.

3.   Fear knocked on the door of his heart.

4.   The wind howled mournfully through the trees.

5.   The sun smiled down on the earth below.

4. Hyperbole:

1.   I'm so hungry I could eat a horse.

2.   He's as tall as a skyscraper.

3.   I've got a million things to do before tomorrow.

4.   She's as old as the hills.

5.   The suitcase weighed a ton.

5. Alliteration:

1.   Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.

2.   Sally sells sea shells by the sea shore.

3.   Tiny Tim tiptoed through the tulips.

4.   Betty Botter bought some butter but the butter was bitter.

5.   Silly Sammy swiftly swam through the sea.

6. Assonance:

1.   The rain in Spain falls mainly on the plain.

2.   The cat sat on the mat and had a nap.

3.   The wind whistled through the trees.

4.   The light at the end of the tunnel was blinding.

5.   The boat floated on the open ocean.

7. Onomatopoeia:

1.   The clock ticked away the seconds.

2.   The thunder rumbled in the distance.

3.   The bees buzzed around the flowers.

4.   The fire crackled and popped in the fireplace.

5.   The door creaked open slowly.

8. Imagery:

1.   The waves crashed against the rocky shore, sending sprays of salty foam into the air.

2.   The aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through the kitchen, filling the room with warmth and comfort.

3.   The forest was a tapestry of vibrant colors, with leaves of gold, crimson, and emerald dancing in the breeze.

4.   The snow-covered landscape stretched out for miles, sparkling under the winter sun like a blanket of diamonds.

5.   The scent of blooming flowers mingled with the earthy aroma of rain-soaked soil, creating a symphony of fragrances in the garden.

9. Symbolism:

1.   The dove symbolizes peace and harmony.

2.   The red rose is a symbol of love and passion.

3.   The cross represents sacrifice and redemption.

4.   The owl is often seen as a symbol of wisdom and knowledge.

5.   The color black is often used to symbolize death and mourning.

10. Irony:

1.   The fire station burned down.

2.   The dentist had a cavity in his own tooth.

3.   The lifeguard drowned while trying to save a swimmer.

4.   The bank robber returned the money he stole.

5.   The weatherman got caught in the rain without an umbrella.

Articles – a, an, the

 

Articles – a, an, the

1) Articles are a type of determiner that precede and modify nouns. They provide information about the specificity or generalization of the noun.

 Articles are used to indicate whether a noun is definite or indefinite.

They can also signal whether the noun is countable or uncountable.

2)  Three main articles : "the," "a," and "an."

Definite Article: "The" is used to refer to specific nouns that are known to both the speaker and the listener, or that have been previously mentioned or identified.

 It indicates that the noun is unique or specific in some way.

Example:

a)   Please pass me the book on the table.

b)   She visited the Eiffel Tower during her trip to Paris.

c)   He is the tallest student in the class.

d)   Let's go to the park tomorrow.

e)   Have you read the article about the new discovery?

 

Indefinite Articles: "A" and "an" are used to refer to nonspecific or generic nouns.

They indicate that the noun is not specifically identified or known, or that it is one of many possible items.

·         "A" is used before words that begin with a consonant sound.

·         "An" is used before words that begin with a vowel sound.

Examples:

a)   I need a pen to write this letter.

b)   She wants to buy an umbrella for rainy days.

c)   He adopted a cat from the animal shelter.

d)   Could you pass me an orange from the fruit basket?

e)   She has a new job at a local restaurant.

3) While using ‘a’ and ‘an’, note that they precede the word that begins with consonant and vowel sounds respectively. NOT the consonant and vowel letters.

Examples:

             i.        a eulogy

            ii.        a ewe

           iii.        a one-way street

          iv.        a unicorn

            v.        a uniform

          vi.        a utensil

         vii.        a union

        viii.        a European country

          ix.        a user

            x.        a used car

          xi.        an honor

         xii.        an hour

        xiii.        an honest person

       xiv.        an heir

         xv.        an herb

       xvi.        an X-ray

      xvii.        an L-shaped desk

     xviii.        an N95 mask

       xix.        an S-shaped curve

         xx.        an R-rated movie

       xxi.        an FBI investigation

      xxii.        an MRI scan

 

4) Some rules for ‘the’

1.   Superlatives: "The" is used with superlative adjectives to indicate the highest degree of comparison.

·         Example: "He is the tallest member of the team."

2.   Unique Objects: "The" is used when referring to unique objects, such as geographical landmarks, historical events, or specific organizations.

·         Example: "She visited the Taj Mahal during her trip to India."

3.   Ordinal Numbers: "The" is used before ordinal numbers (e.g., first, second, third) to indicate a specific position in a sequence.

·         Example: "He won the first place in the competition."

4.   Geographical Locations: "The" is often used before the names of certain geographical locations, such as rivers, oceans, mountain ranges, and deserts.

·         Example: "They sailed across the Atlantic Ocean."

5.   Specific Events: "The" is used before the names of specific events or historical periods.

·         Example: "He studied the Renaissance in his history class."

6.   Unique Titles: "The" is used before unique titles or names of specific works.

·         Example: "Have you read the Munsi Prem Chand?"

7.   Publications: "The" is often used before the names of newspapers, magazines, or other publications.

·         Example: "I read about it in the Times of India."

8.   Musical Instruments: "The" is used before the names of certain musical instruments.

·         Example: "She plays the piano."

9.   Families: "The" is sometimes used before the names of families to refer to the family as a whole.

·         Example: "They're going on vacation with the Sharmas."

10. Specific Days: "The" is used before specific days of the week.

• Example: "We're going to the beach on the Sunday."

11. Specific Seasons: "The" is used before specific seasons of the year.

• Example: "I love hiking in the spring."

12. Specific Years: "The" is used before specific years.

• Example: "He was born in the year 1990."

13. Specific Directions: "The" is used before specific directions or points on a map.

• Example: "They live on the west side of town."

14. Specific Names: "The" is used before specific names of things, such as certain inventions or landmarks.

• Example: "He invented the telephone."

15. Specific Groups or Categories: "The" is used before specific groups or categories of people or things.

• Example: "She's in the top 10% of her class."

16. Specific Parts of the Body: "The" is used before specific parts of the body when referring to them in a general sense.

• Example: "He injured the knee while playing soccer."

5) Omission of articles

a)   Names of Places: Articles are often omitted before names of cities, countries, continents, and other proper nouns.

a.   Example: "She lives in Paris."

b)   Names of Languages: Articles are generally omitted before names of languages.

a.   Example: "He speaks French."

c)   Uncountable Nouns: Articles are often omitted before uncountable nouns, which refer to substances, concepts, or qualities that cannot be counted individually.

a.   Example: "She drinks coffee every morning."

d)   Abstract Nouns: Articles are frequently omitted before abstract nouns, which represent ideas or concepts rather than tangible objects.

a.   Example: "He has love for all animals."

e)   Professions and Occupations: Articles are sometimes omitted before professions and occupations when referring to them in a general sense.

a.   Example: "She's studying to be lawyer."

f)     Meals and Meals as Activities: Articles are often omitted before the names of meals or when referring to meals as activities.

a.   Example: "They had breakfast together."

g)   Plural Nouns Used in a General Sense: Articles can be omitted before plural nouns when referring to them in a general sense.

a.   Example: "Dogs are loyal animals."

h)   Titles and Names of People: Articles can be omitted before titles and names of people when used in direct address or titles of respect.

a.   Example: "Good morning, President."

i)     Days of the Week and Months: Articles are generally omitted before the names of days of the week and months when used in expressions of time.

a.   Example: "They met on Monday."

j)     Acronyms and Initialisms: Articles are often omitted before acronyms and initialisms.

a.   Example: "He works for NASA."

6)  Note :

There are many rules for the use of articles and even more exceptions to these rules. So, the only way to master the correct use of articles is to have a lot of practice.

Students should have a close eye for the use of articles in the write-ups they come across.

7) Exercise for practice

Exercise 1: Fill in the blank with the appropriate article ("a," "an," or "the") or leave it blank if no article is needed.

1.   She adopted __________ puppy from the animal shelter.

2.   Have you ever visited __________ Grand Canyon?

3.   He is studying to become __________ engineer.

4.   They live on __________ 7th Street.

5.   We need to buy __________ new couch for the living room.

6.   Can you pass me __________ salt, please?

7.   I'm going to __________ grocery store to buy some milk.

8.   __________ apple a day keeps the doctor away.

9.   We went camping in __________ Rocky Mountains last summer.

10.                She plays __________ piano beautifully.

Exercise 2: Rewrite the sentences, adding or removing articles as necessary to make them grammatically correct.

1.   She wants to be doctor.

2.   They're going to beach next weekend.

3.   I saw cat on street yesterday.

4.   He's reading book about space.

5.   She's studying history of Europe.

6.   We need to buy new car.

7.   He's playing guitar in band.

8.   They visited museum last week.

9.   I'm going to hospital to visit friend.

10.                She's wearing necklace that she bought in Paris.

Exercise 3: Choose the correct article (a, an, the) to complete each sentence.

1.   She adopted __________ dog from the animal shelter.

 a) a b) an c) the

2.   Have you ever been to __________ Eiffel Tower?

 a) a b) an c) the

3.   He wants to become __________ astronaut.

a) a b) an c) the

4.   They live on __________ 10th Street.

 a) a b) an c) the

5.   We need to buy __________ new car.

a) a b) an c) the

6.   Can you pass me __________ salt, please?

a) a b) an c) the

7.   I'm going to __________ grocery store to buy some bread.

 a) a b) an c) the

8.   __________ apple a day keeps the doctor away.

a) A b) An c) The

9.   They hiked in __________ Rocky Mountains last summer.

a) a b) an c) the

10.                She plays __________ violin in the school orchestra.

 a) a b) an c) the

Answers:

Exercise 1:

1.   a, 2. the, 3. an, 4. 7th, 5. a, 6. the, 7. the, 8. An, 9. the, 10. the

Exercise 2:

1.   She wants to be a doctor.

2.   They're going to the beach next weekend.

3.   I saw a cat on the street yesterday.

4.   He's reading a book about space.

5.   She's studying the history of Europe.

6.   We need to buy a new car.

7.   He's playing the guitar in a band.

8.   They visited a museum last week.

9.   I'm going to the hospital to visit a friend.

10.                She's wearing the necklace that she bought in Paris.

Exercise 3:

1. a, 2. the, 3. an, 4. the, 5. a, 6. the, 7. the, 8. A, 9. the, 10. the