definite and zero articles

Use the definite article (the):
*When referring to something that is already known to the listener because it has been
mentioned before.
E.G. So I showed the photos to the police. (I've mentioned these photos before)
*When referring to something that is already known to the listener because it is obvious from
the text.
E.G. I forgot to give the cat her supper. (it is obvious I'm talking about my cat)
*When something is unique (including superlatives and first, last, next, only)
E.G. She is the greatest sportwoman.
*When a definiting or prepositional phrase makes the noun specific.
E.G. It's the house at the top of the street.
*Before the names of some geographical features, buildings and places.
E.G. I live in the country, not the town.

Use the zero article:
*Before abstract nouns.
E.G. You can't stop time.
*Before general plural nouns.
E.G. Computers are very powerful now.
! But if the abstract or plural noun is made specific by a defining phrase we use an article.
E.G. The computers we've just bought are fantastic.
*Before people's names and the names of most companies, materials, countries, mountains,
and lacks.
E.G. Alexandra lives in Italy. She lives near Lake Como. She works for Deutsche Bank.
*Before the names of types of institutions, for example school, hospital, university.
E.G. My brother is about to start school.
! But if we are referring to a particular building we use the definite article.
E.G. Excuse me, Is the school near here?