When is it appropriate to use "its" and not "it's" (and vice versa)?

Question

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What is the best way to explain how to choose between “its” and “it's”?

Hello,

I am always confused when is the usage of its or it's appropriate. Basically when should I use its and not it's (and vice versa).

Answer 1

"Its" is a possessive pronoun like "his" or "her", while "it's" is the short form for "it is" or sometimes "it has". Trying to replace it with "her" or "it is/has" helps. I use "her" because for many "his" and "he's" sound to much alike, and "he's" would be a test case for "it's".

Answer 2

it's = it is or is has.

its = belonging (or pertaining) to it, in the same way that his means belonging to him.