“Who” and “whom” are two words that challenge many writers and speakers everyday. Their usage is sometimes confusing because the sentence doesn’t “sound” right. Because of this, many people tend to overthink the structure and this usually causes problems.

“Who” is used in the subjective case, and “whom” is used in the objective case.

However, there are a few methods that can be used to help determine whether or not it is proper to use “who/whoever” and “whom/whomever.” So, here are a few easy tips to remember:

1. Can the sentence be reworked to avoid the choice? Is the word even necessary?

Kevin called a consultant whom he met at the conference.
Kevin called a consultant he met at the conference.

2. Substitute “he/she” for “who” and “him/her” for “whom.” This will work even if you have to change the order of the words a little.

Whom are you going to the prom with? I am going with him/her.
I knew the student who made the highest grade. He/she made the highest grade.

3. All action verbs must have a subject. This overules the above, especially when the pronoun follows a preposition and the writer wants to use objective case but shouldn’t.

I am saving the last piece of pie for whoever mows the lawn. Here there has to be a subject (he/she) for the action verb “mows.”
They gave a trophy to whoever sold the most donuts. Here there has to be a subject (he/she) for the action verb “sold.”

Certainly, these are simplified tips. However, when used correctly, they will work when you need them to.

Which one do you think will help you the most?

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