A pronoun works only when the reader knows which noun it points to, its antecedent from Pronoun–Antecedent Agreement. Read this:
Two kinds of pronoun trouble cause most unclear sentences: two possible antecedents, as above, and no antecedent at all, as in “They say it will rain,” where nobody says who they are.
- Repeat the noun: “When Ana called Mia, Mia was upset.”
- Rearrange: “Ana was upset when she called Mia.”
- Name what this or it means: “This delay made us late.”
- Say who they are: “The forecast says it will rain.”
Key idea
Each pronoun should point to one clear noun. If two nouns could fit, or none does, use the noun itself.
Why it works
You know what you meant; the reader has only the page. A vague pronoun makes the reader guess, and readers often guess wrong.
Worked example: A loose this
The bus was late, and it rained all morning. This made us grumpy.
- What does this point to: the bus, the rain, or both?
- Name it.
Answer: The late bus and the rain made us grumpy.
Worked example: Two people
Dad told Grandpa that his car was ready.
- Whose car: Dad’s or Grandpa’s?
- Say it outright.
Answer: Dad told Grandpa, “Your car is ready.” (or: “My car is ready.”)
Common mistake
Using this, it or they with nothing definite to point to: “They say it will rain.” “This shows that …” Ask: what, exactly, does the pronoun stand for? If you have to think, write the noun.