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Using a and an with singular countable nouns.
Use a/an before singular countable nouns when referring to one non-specific person or thing.
The indefinite article is used only with singular countable nouns. It introduces a noun that is not yet known or identified by the listener.
Use a before words beginning with a consonant sound.
The choice depends on pronunciation, not spelling. For example: a university, a European country, a one-way street.
Use an before words beginning with a vowel sound.
The choice depends on pronunciation, not spelling. For example: an hour, an honest person, an MBA.
Use a/an when mentioning a singular countable noun for the first time.
After the noun has been introduced, it usually becomes specific and is referred to with the definite article.
Use a/an to mean one when the exact number is not emphasized.
The indefinite article often has the meaning of one, but it introduces the noun rather than emphasizing the number.
Use a/an before professions, occupations and social roles.
Examples include: a doctor, an engineer, a teacher, an actor.
Use a/an to show that someone or something belongs to a particular class or type.
Examples include: a mammal, an insect, a smartphone, a genius.
Use a/an in expressions of price, speed, frequency and measurement.
Examples include: twice a day, sixty kilometres an hour, ten dollars a kilo.
Use a/an after "What" before singular countable nouns in exclamations.
Examples include: What a pity!, What an amazing idea!, What a beautiful day!
Many common English expressions contain the indefinite article.
Examples include: have a look, take a seat, make a mistake, tell a lie, all of a sudden.
Use a/an with a singular countable noun to represent an entire class.
Examples include: A dog is a loyal animal. A teacher should be patient.
Do not use a/an with plural nouns, uncountable nouns or most proper nouns.
These nouns usually require another determiner or no article. The exceptions are covered in other article groups.