How to Use "Which" and "That"

Writers are often stymied when deciding whether to use “which” or “that” in their writing. Remembering some very simple rules will help you sort out how to use “which” or “that” in the correct ways.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Remember that “which” and “that” are primarily used as relative pronouns, words that relate to another noun preceding it in a sentence. For example: The house that Kathy purchased needs work. In this sentence, the relative pronoun “that” refers back to the noun, “house.” The senator voted for Proposition 21, which gives parents the right to choose their child’s school. In this sentence, “which” relates to Proposition 21.

2. Use “that” in a restrictive clause. A restrictive clause is critical to understanding the main clause (or the main part of the sentence). In the earlier examples, the clause “that Kathy purchased” is restrictive because without it, the noun “house” would not have the same meaning.

3. Use "which" in a nonrestrictive clause--a clause that, if deleted, would not change the essential meaning of the sentence. Study the second example, and you’ll see “which gives parents…” is a nonrestrictive clause because it is not critical to understanding the sentence. In other words, it’s an additional explanation that simply helps to define further the noun, "Proposition 21."

4. Remember : “which” and “that” refer only to nouns that are things. Whenever referring to people, you would use the relative pronoun “who.”

Tips & Warnings

• When in doubt, it’s best to refer back to grammar and style handbooks just to be sure.
• Many grammarians today urge you to opt for the choice that sounds the best. Some grammar rules are made to be broken occasionally, in favor of communicating clearly.

Resources

• Grammar Now
• Daily Writing Tips

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[DianeD]

on 1/29/2009 it's tricky