Have you ever written “donts” and wondered if it looks right? You’re not alone. This small word causes big confusion because of apostrophes and plural rules.
Let’s clear it up in a simple, friendly way so you can use the correct form every time.
Quick Answer
“Don’ts” is correct.
“Donts” is incorrect and should not be used.
✔ Correct: Here are the dos and don’ts.
❌ Incorrect: Here are the dos and donts.
What Does “Don’ts” Mean
“Don’ts” is the plural form of “don’t” (do not). It means:
- Things you should not do
- Rules or actions to avoid
Examples of “Don’ts”
- Learn the basic don’ts of writing.
- These are common don’ts in interviews.
- Follow the dos and don’ts of safety.
- Avoid these social media don’ts.
Why “Donts” Is Wrong
“Donts” is a misspelling because it removes the apostrophe.
The word comes from a contraction:
👉 Do not → don’t → don’ts (plural)
Without the apostrophe, the meaning and structure become incorrect.
The Rule You Need to Know
👉 When making plurals of contractions, keep the apostrophe
Examples
- Don’t → Don’ts ✔
- Can’t → Can’ts ✔
- Won’t → Won’ts ✔
Not:
- Donts ❌
- Cants ❌
- Wonts ❌
Donts vs Don’ts Comparison
| Feature | Donts | Don’ts |
|---|---|---|
| Correct spelling | ❌ No | ✔ Yes |
| Apostrophe used | No | Yes |
| Meaning | Incorrect form | Things not to do |
| Usage | Misspelling | Standard English |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Removing the apostrophe
❌ Donts
✔ Don’ts
2. Treating it like a regular plural
It’s not just a simple “add s” word.
3. Typing too quickly
This mistake often happens in fast writing.
Easy Trick to Remember
👉 Think: Don’t already has an apostrophe—keep it when adding “s”
Don’t → Don’ts ✔
American vs British English
There is no difference:
- “Don’ts” is correct in both American and British English
- “Donts” is incorrect everywhere
Practice Questions
Choose the correct word:
- Learn the dos and ___.
✔ don’ts - Avoid these ___.
✔ don’ts - These are important ___.
✔ don’ts
FAQs
1. Is “donts” ever correct
No, it is always a spelling mistake.
2. What is the correct spelling
The correct spelling is don’ts.
3. Why is there an apostrophe
Because it comes from the contraction “don’t.”
4. Is this a common mistake
Yes, many people forget the apostrophe.
5. Is “don’ts” formal or informal
It is used in both contexts.
6. How can I remember it easily
Think: don’t → don’ts (keep the apostrophe)
Summary
The difference between donts or don’ts is simple. “Don’ts” is correct, while “donts” is incorrect. The correct form keeps the apostrophe because it comes from the contraction “don’t.”
Using the correct punctuation improves clarity and makes your writing more professional.
Actionable Takeaway
Next time you write the word, remember:
👉 Always use don’ts
👉 Never use donts
👉 Keep the apostrophe
A quick check can help you avoid this common mistake easily.
