Apostrophe Rules With Names

Ending in "S" or the "S" Sound

• Show possession of a name ending in "s" or the "s" sound by adding an apostrophe and an "s." The apostrophe alone may be added, but adding the "s" as well is preferred.

  Examples:
  Mark Charles's daughter is going to be six on Sunday.
  We are having dinner at Mr. Simpsons's home this evening.

In the Plural Form

• Make the name plural without adding an apostrophe.

  Examples:
  The Collins have five children.
  The Jacksons live on Market Street.

In the Plural Possessive Form

• To make a plural possessive, first make the name plural, then add an apostrophe.

  Examples:
  The Collins' dogs are dangerous.
  The Joneses' home is white with gray shutters.

When Using a Gerund

• Use the possessive case (apostrophe and an "s") before a gerund ("-ing" word), such as running, walking, and jogging.

  Examples:
  Maria's dancing was brilliant at the ballet last night.
  Jonathon's singing was mediocre, but at least he tried.

When Using More Than One Name

• Use an apostrophe and an "s" after the second name in a sentence if both people own the same thing. If each person possesses something different, then each name should have an apostrophe and an "s" attached.

  Examples:
  John and Mary's new car is a red Ford Focus. (Both John and Mary possess the same car.)
  Lou's and Bella's cars are parked outside. (Lou and Bella do not possess the same car.)