Chapter I. The article 1 the definite and indefinite article

Incorrect
The boy petted the my dog.
Correct
The boy petted the dog.
Correct
The boy petted my dog.
Incorrect
A his book might help you with your insomnia.
Correct
A book might help you with your insomnia.
Correct
His book might help you with your insomnia.

When NOT to Use an Article

An article can be omitted before a noun in some situations where the article is implied and does not need to be explicitly written. Articles should not be used before:

1. 
   Languages and nationalities
   

14

2. 
   Academic subjects
   
3. 
   Abstract ideas
   

Referring to languages and nationalities

Articles are never used before languages and nationalities.
Incorrect
I studied the Korean for 2 years.
Correct
I studied Korean for 2 years.
However, an indefinite article may be used before certain nationalities (the Chinese, the British) but not all.
Example
The French are known for living life to the fullest.
“The French” here refers to the population of the specific nation, preceded by the definite article.

Referring to academic subjects

Articles are not usually used before academic subjects and fields of expertise, such as sports.
Incorrect
The mathematics is the subject that scares many students off.
Correct
Mathematics is the subject that scares many students off.
15
Incorrect
I studied the Engineering in university.
Correct
I studied Engineering in university.

Referring to some abstract ideas

Abstract ideas are not preceded by articles because they are not specific while the articles are used to indicate specificity. For example, love, creativity and enjoyment are the abstract ideas that are not preceded by articles.
Incorrect
The calmness is my strength.
Correct
Calmness is my strength.
Incorrect
One of my weaknesses is that I lack the humor.
Correct
One of my weaknesses is that I lack humor.
16