That or which 1

Do you have problems choosing between the relative pronouns that and which? Many people do. Here's a tip: Use that to introduce adjective clauses that provide essential information about the noun they modify. Use which to introduce adjective clauses that merely provide additional, non-essential information. (A non-essential clause beginning with which is set off with a comma or commas.)

1. Alan bought the puppy reminded him of his lost pet.

that

, which

2. Alan plopped down on the couch beside his new puppy immediately snuggled up to him.

that

, which

3. Rosemary bought the blue and white floral-patterned dress matched the shade of her best shoes.

that

, which

4. Rosemary bought the dress was displayed in the window.

that

, which

5. The photo Graham took won first prize.

that

, which

6. Amalia was reading Nancy Huston's novel Fault Lines completely engrossed her.

that

, which

7. Jean-Luc was reading the book Amalia had read the day before.

that

, which