Let's start off with which--This word is usually surrounded by commas and you use it if a group of words adds information. If you took it out of the sentence, the sentence would still mean the same thing.
Example: The cat, which is black and white, jumped off the ledge.
I'm adding information to which cat it is. Simple right?
Now let's head over to that--This word is used when you are limiting the things you are talking about. If you got rid of it, the sentence would mean something different.
Example: Cars that are black retain heat.
I'm specifying a specific type of car vs. all cars. If I took out that information the sentence would not have the same meaning.
Now, is this easy to see when you are writing? Not all the time. I could read a sentence over a million times and still miss it ( mainly because my eyes are crossed and my brain is fried). That's why we have crit partners, right?
I think I made that lesson easy.
Here are some links for more information.
Better writing skills.com
Grammar Girl
So, how is your usage of which and that? Any other tips?
Oh and if you are following the YA Crush Tourney --Zachary Moore won the next round. Go #TeamKilt. You know I love Jeri Smith Ready's books so I'm voting for Zach all the way. Next match up is on August 10th.
Yeah, I know this says August 5th, but it was the only button I could find at the moment. Next vote August 10th.
Have a great day!!
