Thats or That’s – Which Is Correct

When I first started writing, one of the small but tricky things I noticed was the difference between Thats and That’s. Even seasoned writers often pause at this question, and I admit I did too. A single apostrophe can change the meaning of a sentence, and this tiny issue is surprisingly common in email, social media, and business writing.

At a quick glance, the two look similar, but understanding the rules of grammar and punctuation makes all the difference. That’s is a contraction for that is or that has, while Thats is usually incorrect and can be considered a mistake if the apostrophe is missing. Knowing this helps avoid confusion and keeps your communication clear.

Over time, I created a fact-based guide to help students and professionals navigate this dilemma. By paying attention to the structure of your sentence, the tone—whether formal or informal—and the context, you can choose the correct form. I emphasize clarity, spelling, and expression, because they shift the meaning in subtle ways.

This mindset helps you differentiate between correct and incorrect usage and ensures your content, whether a blog post or editing crafting, works effectively. Always learn the details, facts, and rules to never confuse these two again.

Understanding “That’s” and “Thats”

Before we get into rules and examples, it’s essential to understand the difference between “that’s” and “thats.”

• “That’s” is a contraction. It shortens “that is” or “that has.”
• “Thats” is almost always incorrect in formal writing. It usually appears due to typing errors or informal text messaging.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Word	Type	Correct Usage?	Example
That’s	Contraction	✅ Yes	That’s the book I was talking about.
Thats	Incorrect/Typo	❌ Usually No	Thats my opinion. (incorrect)

Using the correct form not only keeps your sentences grammatically accurate but also improves the readability of your writing.

When to Use “That’s”

As a Contraction of “That Is”

The most common use of “that’s” is as a contraction of “that is.” This form works in both spoken and written English. It allows sentences to flow naturally and sound conversational.

Examples:

• That’s a fascinating idea for your science project.
• That’s exactly what I was thinking yesterday.
• I can’t believe that’s the answer!

Notice how removing the apostrophe completely changes the sentence into an incorrect form: Thats a fascinating idea for your science project looks sloppy and confusing.

As a Contraction of “That Has”

Less common but equally important, “that’s” can contract “that has.” This usually occurs when referring to experiences, actions, or accomplishments.

Examples:

• That’s been one of the best days of my life.
• That’s seen more challenges than most teams.
• I didn’t know that’s already happened.

A key point: if “has” follows immediately after, use the apostrophe. Forgetting it leads to the incorrect “thats”, which is grammatically wrong in formal contexts.

Everyday Examples in Sentences

To help students, teachers, and professionals grasp usage, here are real-life scenarios:

• Classroom: That’s the equation we need to solve for the test.
• Work Email: That’s been approved by the supervisor and is ready to submit.
• Casual Conversation: That’s mad! I didn’t expect that to happen.

These examples show that “that’s” works in professional, academic, and casual settings—making it versatile when used correctly.

Why “Thats” Is Usually Wrong

Typographical Error or Misspelling

Many people mistakenly type “thats” when they forget the apostrophe. Even autocorrect can sometimes fail to flag this. While minor in informal texting, it’s a serious error in professional writing.

Confusion in Informal Texting

Text messages and social media often omit apostrophes for speed, leading to widespread use of “thats.” For example:

• “Thats amazing!”

While understandable in casual contexts, this form is unacceptable in essays, emails, and reports.

Impact on Professional Writing

Using “thats” in emails, research papers, or official documents sends a signal of carelessness. For students, it can affect grades; for professionals, it can reduce credibility.

Misconceptions About “That’s”

People Think “Thats” Is Acceptable

One misconception is believing “thats” is correct because it’s common in texting. Studies of digital communication show that almost 60% of casual English users drop apostrophes in contractions. However, formal writing standards do not allow this.

Apostrophes in Contractions Are Optional

Some writers think apostrophes are optional. They are not. The apostrophe in “that’s” is essential—it shows the word is a contraction, either of “that is” or “that has.”

Regional or Style Differences

While US English consistently uses “that’s”, some informal variations in online English may omit apostrophes. For American students, teachers, and professionals, following standard punctuation rules is non-negotiable.

How Correct Usage Improves Communication

Clarity and Readability

Correct apostrophe usage avoids confusion. Compare:

• That’s the teacher who explained the topic.
• Thats the teacher who explained the topic.

The first sentence is immediately understandable; the second causes a slight mental pause for the reader.

Professionalism and Credibility

Proper usage demonstrates attention to detail, which is critical in resumes, cover letters, academic essays, and professional reports. Mistakes like “thats” can undermine credibility, even if the content is strong.

Boosting Confidence in Writing

When you master contractions like “that’s,” you write confidently and convey ideas smoothly. It shows your readers you are careful and polished in your language.

Exceptions and Special Cases

Brand Names or Titles

Sometimes, “Thats” appears correctly in proper nouns or trademarks. For example:

• Honda That’s (hypothetical brand/product title)

Here, the word is part of a name and does not follow grammar rules. In these cases, leaving out the apostrophe is correct.

Quoting Informal Speech

When quoting casual speech, retaining “thats” is acceptable to preserve the original text. Example:

• The student said, “Thats my favorite book!”

Quoting exactly keeps authenticity, but outside quotes, always use “that’s.”

Tips to Avoid Errors

Using “that’s” correctly is easy once you follow a few simple rules:

• Always check if it’s “that is” or “that has.” If yes → use “that’s.”
• Proofread for missing apostrophes. Reading your text aloud helps catch errors.
• Use grammar tools intelligently. Grammarly, Microsoft Editor, and Hemingway can flag missing apostrophes.
• Mnemonic trick: “That Is/Has → That’s. Anything else → Not That’s.”

These methods reduce mistakes and ensure professional-quality writing.

Summary

To recap:

• “That’s” is the correct contraction of “that is” and “that has.”
• “Thats” is almost always wrong in formal writing.
• Using that’s correctly improves clarity, professionalism, and reader confidence.
• Exceptions exist for brand names and quoted speech, but these are limited.
• Proofreading, mnemonics, and grammar tools can help avoid errors.

Proper apostrophe usage is a small detail that creates a big difference in how your writing is perceived. Mastering “that’s” shows your attention to language, whether you’re a student submitting an essay, a teacher preparing materials, or a professional sending emails.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between Thats and That’s is simpler than it seems, but it takes careful attention to grammar, punctuation, and context. Even seasoned writers can make this mistake, but knowing that That’s is a contraction for that is or that has, while Thats is usually incorrect, will help you write with clarity and confidence.

Paying attention to the structure of a sentence, the tone, and the details ensures your communication is precise and professional. By following these rules and keeping a fact-based mindset, you can easily differentiate correct usage, avoid confusion, and make your content—whether in blogs, emails, or social media—more polished and effective.

FAQs

Q1: Can “Thats” ever be correct?

In standard English, Thats without an apostrophe is typically incorrect. Always use That’s when you mean that is or that has.

Q2: Why do so many people get confused between “Thats” and “That’s”?

At a quick glance, they look similar, and the tiny issue of a missing apostrophe can completely change the meaning of a sentence. Grammar and punctuation rules must be applied carefully.

Q3: How can I remember the correct usage?

Think of That’s as a contraction for that is or that has. Creating a fact-based guide or practicing writing and editing content regularly helps students and professionals differentiate correct forms and avoid confusion.

Q4: Does the tone of writing affect which form to use?

Yes. Whether your tone is formal or informal, understanding the context and following grammar rules ensures your communication is clear and professional.