Students often overuse the word: that
When you are editing, underline all of the that’s in your document.
- Read, and then read again, all sentences which contain the word “that.”
- Many times “that” can be omitted, or the word “which” or “who” may be substituted.
- Sometimes, however, “that” is necessary and must remain in the sentence.
Example:
- I’m certain that you understand everything I’m trying to say.
- Better way: I’m certain you understand everything I’m trying to say.
NOTE: Only by reading the sentence out loud and concentrating on it, will you be able to delete all unnecessary usage of the word that.
HINT: Use the “find” feature in your word processor for locating all of the times you used “that” in your manuscript.
