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Frequently confused, the distinction is as follows:

Its is the possessive pronoun.

  • The college's cat lost its tail after being hit by a car.

It's is the contraction of it is.

  • It's another sunny day in Dunedin.

About the Writing Style Guide

This guide is designed to help ensure writing style – whether for internal or external audiences, written for print or online – is consistent and maintains a professional standard across the University. It is not designed for academic writing.

Feedback

Please send any feedback – including reports of errors or requests for changes – to writing.style@otago.ac.nz

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