What is the difference between at, in and on for places?

Use at for an exact point, like at the bus stop. Use in for an enclosed space, like in the box or in London. Use on for a surface, like on the table or on the wall. Think about the shape of the place to choose the right word.

Does this prepositions of place test have answers?

Yes. All 50 questions in the five exercises show the right answer and a short, simple explanation when you check them. Nothing is hidden, the test is completely free, and you do not need to make an account before you start.

Do I say in the bus or on the bus?

Say on the bus, on the train and on the plane, because these are public transport. Say in the car and in the taxi, because these are small, private vehicles. This is one of the trickiest rules for learners, so practise it often.

How do I choose between at, in and on?

Think about the shape of the place. A point takes at, an enclosed space takes in, and a surface takes on.

Are there exceptions to this rule?

Yes, some are fixed: at school, at work, at home, and on the bus/train/plane but in the car.

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Prepositions of Place – A1 Grammar Exercises with Answers

Exercises:

Choose at, in or on to complete each sentence.

Example

✅ Correct	❌ Wrong
The keys are on the table.	The keys are in the table.

Question 1 of 10

The keys are ___ the table.

Keep practising

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Want the rules first?Read the explanation: Prepositions of Place – A1 Grammar Exercises with Answers →

▸Answer key

Practice Questions & Answers

All A1 questions for “Prepositions of Place – A1 Grammar Exercises with Answers”, each with the correct answer and a short explanation. Try the interactive exercises above, then check your answers here.

At, In or On: Choosing the Right Preposition of Place

1. The keys are ___ the table.
- A. on ✓
- B. in
- C. under
- D. at
Answer: on
On is for a surface, like a table.
2. She lives ___ Paris.
- A. at
- B. in ✓
- C. near
- D. on
Answer: in
In is for cities and countries.
Meet me ___ the bus stop.

Written by the Olly English team · How we build our tests

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The keys are ___ the table.

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At, In or On: Choosing the Right Preposition of Place

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