Understanding Why 'What' Is Incorrect in a Sentence

Nail Your HESI A2 Grammar Skills: Get the Edge with This Key Lesson

Hey there, future nursing stars! Grammar might not rank as the most exhilarating topic in your study session—trust me, I get it. But having a solid grip on the fundamentals can make all the difference in your writing clarity and expression. So, let’s break down a common grammar misstep that tends to pop up, even in our casual conversations. Stick with me, and you might just ace that writing part of the HESI A2 without even breaking a sweat!

The Dilemma of "That" vs. "What"

Picture this: You’re writing about an impressive interviewee, recounting their experience. You’ve got a great sentence, but there’s one word that just doesn’t fit—like a puzzle piece that belongs in a different box. Here’s the example: “Of the many people what she interviewed; she chose the one with the most experience.”

Spoiler alert: "what" is the odd word out.

A Quick Grammar Rundown

Now, let’s unwind this sentence, shall we? The crux of the problem lies in the word "what." In this context, it simply doesn’t do its job. You need "that" here because it helps to introduce the relative clause in a way that specifies the group of people being discussed.

Imagine saying, “Of the many people that she interviewed, she chose the one with the most experience.” That’s much clearer, right? "That" acts as a defining relative pronoun. It’s like a friendly guide pointing out exactly who we’re talking about. On the flip side, “what” tends to refer to unspecified things—it's a bit nebulous for this sentence and doesn’t quite pinpoint the point of focus.

Why "That" Makes Sense

So, why do we need "that"? Well, using "that" makes the sentence more definitive, showing readers exactly which group you’re referencing. You’re not just saying, “Hey, this is a bunch of interviewees.” You're specifically highlighting a certain person among them. It's a nifty little tool that keeps your writing sharp and effective.

Think about your everyday life. When you’re sharing a story, you don’t just say “the thing” or “the people” when you mean something specific. You say exactly who or what you’re referring to so that your listeners can picture it in their minds. The same principle holds true in writing!

Other Parts of the Sentence

Now, let’s take a quick peek at the rest of our sentence. “Of the many people,” “with,” and “most experience”—all work like a charm! Each component cohesively holds the sentence together, enriching the meaning and intention behind it. That’s why they’re good to go!

Do you see how even in just one sentence, the right choice of words can clear up confusion and ensure your message lands with precision? Exciting, right? Well, let’s keep this momentum going!

Common Missteps to Watch Out For

Getting the nuances of pronouns right is just the tip of the iceberg. Here are some common pitfalls you might want to be on guard against:

1. Who vs. Whom: You’ve probably heard this one thrown around. A simple rule? Use "who" for the subject of a clause and "whom" for the object. Think of it this way: If you can replace the word with “he” or “she,” go with “who.” If you’d use “him” or “her,” then it’s “whom.” Clear as mud? Just practice a few sentences, and it’ll become second nature!

2. Their vs. There vs. They’re: Let’s untangle this trio! “Their” shows ownership, “there” indicates a place, and “they’re” is a contraction of "they are." Mix these up, and your sentence can quickly go from coherent to confusing.

3. Affect vs. Effect: This duo can leave you scratching your head. Affect is a verb (think: "to influence"), while effect is a noun (think: "the result"). Keeping them straight can save you from some embarrassing moments!

Engaging with Grammar

Now, there’s no magical spell that makes mastering grammar an absolute blast—but there are little ways to make it more engaging. You could turn it into a game! Try writing sentences and swapping out different pronouns to see how meaning changes. Or, grab a few friends and have a collaborative grammar-check challenge. Turn those lessons into lively discussions, and it’ll start to feel like less of a chore.

Final Thoughts

To wrap this up in a neat little bow, understanding the role of "that" vs. "what" could be a game changer for your writing clarity. It's all about communication and ensuring your readers grasp your message the first time around. Remember, the right choice can elevate your writing from good to great, and your confidence will just soar.

So, the next time you're crafting sentences—and especially if you're mentioning groups of people or things—give a nod to “that.” It’s more fitting than “what” and keeps your ideas wonderfully sharp. Keep practicing, and before you know it, you’ll be nailing those grammar points like a pro.

Happy writing, future nurses! Keep aiming high—you’re on the path to greatness!