1. Definition of Articles

Articles in English are small, yet essential words that go before nouns and help define them in terms of definiteness or indefiniteness. They act as identifiers, signaling whether we're discussing specific items or items in general.

2. How to Form Articles

English articles are unique in their forms and are not derived from other words. They are:

1. a
2. an
3. the

3. Types of Articles

1. Indefinite Articles: "a" and "an"
   • Use "a" before words that begin with a consonant sound.
     • Example: a cat, a dog, a university (because 'university' starts with a 'yu' sound, which is consonant-like)
   • Use "an" before words that begin with a vowel sound.
     • Example: an apple, an honest person, an hour (because 'hour' starts with a silent 'h' followed by a vowel sound)
2. Definite Article: "the"
   • Refers to specific nouns which are known to both the speaker and the listener.
     • Example: the sun, the book on the table, the Amazon River

4. How to Use Articles in Sentences

1. With Singular and Plural Nouns:
   • a/an: used only with singular nouns.
     • Example: I saw a movie yesterday.
   • The: used with both singular and plural nouns.
     • Example: She likes the colour blue. / She returned the books.
2. With Non-specific and Specific Referents:
   • I want a cookie. (Any cookie)
   • I want the cookie you bought yesterday. (A specific cookie)

5. Cases When We Don't Use Articles

1. With plural and uncountable nouns, when speaking about them in general.