When to use or omit “that”

In many sentences, the subordinating conjunction or relative pronoun "that" can be omitted. But it's not always easy knowing when you need to use "that" and when you can leave it out. In the sentences below, decide whether to use or to omit this tricky little word.

1. During the fire drill, the staff found several students were unaccounted for.

Use "that"

Omit "that"

both are correct

2. I'm sure we discussed that at last week's meeting.

Use "that"

Omit "that"

both are correct

3. You said I could go.

Use "that"

Omit "that"

both are correct

4. Claire hopes that proposal will be turned down.

Use "that"

Omit "that"

both are correct

5. No one believed Danny's claim he was framed.

Use "that"

Omit "that"

both are correct

6. The letter I received from my sister mentioned her daughter's upcoming marriage.

Use "that"

Omit "that"

both are correct

7. One of the bystanders shouted an ambulance was on its way.

Use "that"

Omit "that"

both are correct

8. The parcel arrived today is from head office.

Use "that"

Omit "that"

both are correct

9. Luca promised he would drive us to the airport and that the car would be ready by 4:30.

Use "that"

Omit "that"

both are correct

10. Bianca understood , given her heavy workload, the deadline was flexible.

Use "that"

Omit "that"

both are correct