Chao- These two things that require an apostrophe can get confusing. They also give readers headaches if used incorrectly. After all, how many times have we stumble upon in either our own work or another's and read you're when it should be your or vice versa? Talk about a face palm moment.
YChao- You made such mistakes before, even now.
Agent Daisy- (opens very old fan fics) (points at flaws)
Chao- Yep, not gonna deny that. Anyway, here are some websites for people who may need a refresher.
Apostrophe (Oatmeal)
Guidelines for Using Apostrophes Correctly (About.com)
The Apostrophe (Purdue OWL)
Chao- And even if we become aware of what we write, how can will cut down on these mistakes? Try this little exercise.
Exercise: Try writing without using either apostrophes. Write out the possessions and contractions.
Example: Instead of "he's" write "he is". Or instead of "you're" write "you are".
Consider this: While examining your own work, either for clarification or if you are at the revision stage, read every paragraph backwards. All sentences should stand on their own, and it will give you a better way of seeing mistakes.
Chao- FF.net and FP.com have Previews available. You can try reading your story in that format, so it will give you a new view on the piece. Sometimes it's easier to catch mistakes if you see your story in a new format.
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