Other vs. Another: What's the Difference?
Quick Answer
other = used with plural nouns or "the" (other books, the other one)
another = always singular — "one more" or "a different one" (an + other)
Explanation
OTHER
With plural nouns, or "the" + singular
"I have other plans." (plural)
"Where's the other shoe?" (the + singular)
ANOTHER
Always singular — one more / a different one
"Can I have another coffee?" (one more)
"Let's try another way." (different one)
Memory trick: Another = "an" + "other" — and "an" only goes with singular nouns, so another is always singular. Other is more flexible: plural nouns (other people) or with "the" (the other day).
Examples
Common Mistakes
Incorrect: Can you show me other example?
Correct: Can you show me another example? (singular — one more)
Incorrect: I need to buy another shoes.
Correct: I need to buy other shoes. (plural noun, not "another")
Practice
Choose the correct word:
"I tried one solution, then _____ , but neither worked. The _____ team members suggested _____ approach."