2. Use a or an with:

a Singular, countable nouns that are nonspecific

Minerva sat in a corner and read a newspaper.

An elephant and an ostrich appeared to them
from behind an iron fence.

b. Singular, countable nouns that are generic

A magazine is classified as a periodical because it is
published at various intervals, or periods.

    Note: Do not use a or an with plural nouns:

Not:     We bought a books.

But:     We bought books.

3. Use some with:

Plural nouns or noncount nouns that refer to a specifiable
quantity

The new students needed some advice about studying.

I always carry some medicine with me when I travel.

4. Use no article with:

a. Plural or noncount common nouns that are not specific

Stocks and bonds can be risky investments.

Josef's store sells office supplies.

There are games and sports for children of all ages.

b. Plural nouns used in an abstract or generic sense

Jade plants need frequent watering.

Men suffer from stuttering in greater numbers than women do.

c. Singular proper nouns that name a person, a country, city, or
continent; a mountain, lake, or bay; or a disease

We enjoyed vacationing at Lake Louise.

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