1. A noun clause is a subordinate clause that functions as a noun
Noun Clauses
A noun clause is a subordinate clause that functions as a noun

2. Like a noun . . .
A noun clause can be a subject, a predicate nominative, a direct object, an indirect object, or an object of a preposition.
It can come at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence.

3. Examples . . . Which coat to choose is Mohammad’s dilemma. [subject]
The issue is how long should we wait. [predicate nominative]
Give what you can to this worthy cause. [direct object]
Please send whoever is interested this questionnaire. [indirect object]
Please help yourself to whatever you need. [object of preposition]

4. Words that can Introduce Noun Clauses
How If
That
What
Whatever
When
Where
Whether
Which
Who
Whoever
Whom
Whomever
Whose
Why

5. Writing Tip: Use Noun Clauses Sparingly
An overuse of noun clauses can make your writing sound stuffy and stilted.
Original: Whatever the grade may be is not the issue.
Less formal, less wordy: The grade is not the issue.

6. Identify Noun Clauses
You know that you’re the fastest runner on the team.
Whoever wins tomorrow’s race will compete in the county meet.
A better long jumper is what we need most on this team.
Coach Wysocki certainly knows when he can get the maximum effort out of us.
What she does with this team is quite impressive.

7. Why Jimmy didn’t try out for the team is beyond me.
Why can’t we just make whoever is qualified part of this team?
Only the individual involved can decide whether he or she will try out for a team.
Please give whoever tries out next year lots of encouragement.
Sometimes, the problem is deciding which of two teams to join.