The apostrophe in “what’s” is a small but crucial punctuation mark that signifies the contraction of two words: “what is” or “what has.” Understanding its correct usage is fundamental to clear and grammatically sound writing, particularly in the realm of technical documentation and professional communication. This article delves into the nuances of spelling and employing “what’s” correctly, ensuring your writing is precise and professional.
Understanding Contractions and Apostrophes
Contractions are shortened forms of words or groups of words, created by omitting certain letters and replacing them with an apostrophe. This linguistic shortcut is common in spoken English and widely accepted in informal written English. However, in formal contexts, including technical manuals, academic papers, and business correspondence, the decision to use contractions can be debated, but when they are used, their spelling must be accurate.
The Role of the Apostrophe
The apostrophe serves a dual purpose in contractions: it indicates where letters have been removed, and it signals the fusion of two words into one. In the case of “what’s,” the apostrophe replaces the “i” in “is” or the “ha” in “has.”
- “What is” → “What’s”: This is the most common usage. For example, “What’s the status of the drone’s battery life?” Here, “what’s” stands for “what is.”
- “What has” → “What’s”: This usage is less frequent but still grammatically correct. For example, “What’s happened to the flight controller’s calibration?” Here, “what’s” stands for “what has.”
It is essential to distinguish “what’s” from the possessive pronoun “whose,” which refers to ownership and does not use an apostrophe. For instance, “Whose drone is this?” is a question about ownership, whereas “What’s inside this drone?” is a question about the contents.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
A frequent error is the confusion between “what’s” (contraction) and “whats” (a misspelling or a plural noun in very specific, uncommon contexts, usually informal). In standard English, “whats” as a standalone word without an apostrophe is generally incorrect when intended as a contraction.
Another common mistake is the incorrect placement of the apostrophe, such as “whats” or “wats.” Precision in apostrophe placement is key to maintaining a professional tone and conveying accurate meaning.
Contextual Usage in Technical Communication
In the field of drones and flight technology, clarity and accuracy are paramount. While some informal communication channels might permit a more relaxed approach to contractions, formal documentation, user manuals, and technical specifications often require adherence to strict grammatical rules.
User Manuals and Tutorials
When writing user manuals for drones, flight controllers, or camera systems, the goal is to provide unambiguous instructions.
- Example of correct usage: “Check what’s displayed on the FPV screen before takeoff.” This is clear and concise.
- Example of preferred formal usage (avoiding contractions): “Check what is displayed on the FPV screen before takeoff.”
The choice between using “what’s” or “what is” can depend on the overall style guide of the organization or publication. However, if contractions are permitted, the correct spelling of “what’s” remains non-negotiable.
Technical Specifications and Reports
In detailed technical specifications or engineering reports, the emphasis is typically on formal language.
- Formal phrasing: “The system will report what has been configured for the obstacle avoidance parameters.”
- Less formal (but still grammatically correct if contractions are allowed): “The system will report what’s been configured for the obstacle avoidance parameters.”
When referring to specific components or functionalities, precision is critical. For instance, a report might detail “the sensors responsible for detecting what’s ahead of the drone.” The use of “what’s” here is acceptable if contractions are part of the established writing style.
Community Forums and Online Discussions
In online communities dedicated to drones, flight technology, and aerial filmmaking, a more conversational tone is often prevalent. Here, the correct spelling of “what’s” is crucial for clear communication among enthusiasts and professionals.
- A typical question: “What’s the best way to calibrate the gimbal on my new racing drone?”
- A response: “It depends on what’s causing the drift. Have you tried adjusting the PID settings?”
In these informal settings, users often seek quick answers and readily understand contractions. However, even here, incorrect spelling of “what’s” can lead to misunderstandings or be perceived as unprofessional.
Differentiating “What’s” from Similar Punctuation and Words
Beyond the basic contraction, understanding how “what’s” relates to other grammatical elements ensures consistent accuracy.
“What’s” vs. “Whose”
As mentioned earlier, “whose” is a possessive interrogative or relative pronoun. It asks or states to whom something belongs.
- “What’s”: Pertains to “what is” or “what has.”
- “What’s the maximum flight time?” (What is the maximum flight time?)
- “What’s been updated in the firmware?” (What has been updated in the firmware?)
- “Whose”: Pertains to possession.
- “Whose drone is this?”
- “The pilot, whose drone had a battery failure, landed safely.”
Confusing these two can fundamentally alter the meaning of a sentence.
“What’s” vs. “Wants”
“Wants” is the third-person singular present tense of the verb “to want.” It denotes desire or a need for something.
- “What’s”: Contraction of “what is” or “what has.”
- “What’s the destination for this mission?”
- “Wants”: Verb indicating desire.
- “The pilot wants to achieve a longer flight duration.”
- “The system wants a firmware update.” (This phrasing is slightly unusual, but grammatically “wants” is correct if the system is personified or if it’s a colloquial expression.)
“What’s” vs. “What” (without apostrophe)
When “what” is used as a pronoun or determiner without a contraction, it does not take an apostrophe.
- “What is” (full form): “What is the payload capacity of this UAV?”
- “What’s” (contraction): “What’s the payload capacity of this UAV?”
- “What” (as a standalone pronoun/determiner): “What do you need for the aerial survey?” (Here, “what” is the object of “do need.”)
Best Practices for Spelling “What’s”
Adhering to a few simple guidelines will ensure consistent and correct spelling of “what’s.”
Double-Checking Context
Before writing, consider the intended meaning. Are you referring to “what is” or “what has”? If so, “what’s” is the correct contraction. If you are referring to possession, use “whose.” If you are denoting desire, use “wants.”
Proofreading Meticulously
The most effective method for ensuring correct spelling is thorough proofreading. Reading your work aloud can sometimes help catch errors that your eyes might miss. Pay specific attention to punctuation, especially apostrophes.
Utilizing Spell Checkers (with Caution)
Modern word processors and online writing tools have sophisticated spell checkers that can flag incorrect usage. However, they are not infallible. They may not always understand the nuances of context or differentiate between homophones. Always review the suggestions and apply your own judgment. For instance, a spell checker might flag “what’s” if the overall document style guide strictly prohibits contractions, even if the spelling itself is correct.
Understanding Style Guides
For professional and technical writing, adhering to a specific style guide (such as the Associated Press Stylebook, Chicago Manual of Style, or an internal company guide) is crucial. These guides provide rules on everything from capitalization and hyphenation to the appropriate use of contractions. Familiarize yourself with the relevant style guide for your work. If the style guide permits contractions and the context calls for “what is” or “what has,” then “what’s” is the correct spelling.
Conclusion: Precision in Every Letter
The correct spelling of “what’s” is more than just an academic exercise; it is a reflection of attention to detail and a commitment to clear, professional communication. In fields as dynamic and precise as drones, flight technology, and aerial imaging, where accurate information can have significant practical implications, every word and punctuation mark matters. By understanding the function of the apostrophe, differentiating “what’s” from similar words, and applying diligent proofreading, writers can ensure their technical content is both accurate and effectively communicated. Mastering this small but significant aspect of grammar contributes to the overall credibility and clarity of your work, fostering trust and understanding among your audience.