I Wrote This Post to Stop Using the Word “That”.

That is there. That is how it works. That thing. That particular problem.

This is how I’m using the word “that” in all the possible ways. Writing it here for my notes and for people like me.

1. Why “that” Happens So Much

Writers tend to use that:

• Without noticing — especially in speech-like writing. It feels natural.
• Connector (“I knew that he was coming”) in subordinate clauses.
• As a placeholder reference (“That was amazing!”).

And moreover, it is a filler word like just, actually, very… and etc.

2. When “That” Is Actually Redundant

The key is this: only remove “that” if the sentence keeps its meaning and flow without it.

Examples:

- Unnecessary:

• She knew that he would change his mind. → She knew he would change his mind.

- Necessary:

• That is why she didn’t trust anyone. (Here that refers to something specific, removing it changes meaning.)

3. Editing Strategy: Search and Evaluate

1. Finish your first draft without worrying about small words.
2. In editing, search for every “that” in your manuscript.
3. Ask for each one: -Is it needed for clarity or grammar? -Does it add meaning or simply fill space? If the answer is no, cut it.

4. Why You Feel It’s Right

Many writers feel like that sounds more correct because in spoken language, it helps brain pacing for comprehension. It gives readers a slight pause or link between ideas.

5. Alternatives to “That”

The idea is that we must act fast — — — — — The idea is we must act fast. She said that she’d come later — — — — — She said she’d come later. He thought that the plan was perfect — — — — — He believed the plan was perfect. That spot was haunted — — — — — The old cabin on the hill was haunted.

6. When NOT to Remove “That”

-In dialogue, that often reflects natural speech. Over-editing dialogue can make characters sound robotic. -When removal confuses meaning or breaks the sentence.

7. A Brief Psychology Behind Overuse

Research shows that redundancy, including filler words, can help (to a point) readers feel understood. But if overdone, redundancy kills pace and clarity. So the goal isn’t zero “that”, but effective use of “that” only when it serves meaning.

— — — — — — — — — -

That said, let’s learn where to use it and where to avoid it.

Because that deserves boundaries.