Which of these sentences is right?

[sondra]

I would be grateful if you corrected these sentences.

1.Understanding these numbers is important when you plan how many colleges to apply to.

2.Understanding these numbers is important when you plan to how many colleges to apply to.

3.Understanding these numbers is important when you plan to how many colleges to apply.

Thanks

[Nightmare85]

***Neither a teacher nor a native speaker.***

Hello,

To be honest I don't think any of those sentences is grammatically correct.

However, I'm not 100% sure how to write it correctly either.
I was thinking about something like:
Understanding these numbers is important when you plan to how many colleges they apply.

I'm sure some other members will be able to help you better.

Cheers!

[JohnParis]

When planning how many colleges to apply to, understanding these numbers is important.


Try not to end sentences with a preposition.


John

[sondra]

Sentences ending with a preposition were always confusing me.

I have been told by native speakers, that sometimes it is grammmatically correct to end a sentence with a preposition, but I don't know when.

For example, "I don't know whom I should send this application to."

Is it a correct sentence?

[JohnParis]

Sondra,

I said TRY not to end a sentence with a preposition.
Sometimes you can't help it, but with a little thought you can often say the same thing and remain within the 'suggestion'. Notice that I used the word suggestion (not rule) because this is one area of English that is changing. More and more, ending a sentence with a preposition is being accepted. But, if you can avoid it I suggest you do so.

"I don't know to whom I should send this application" is a good example. The sentence sounds a bit pompous. People don't speak this way anymore so, many say, why should we write this way?

[sondra]

I will try. Thank you.

[5jj]

When planning how many colleges to apply to, understanding these numbers is important.

Try not to end sentences with a preposition.

Most of those who object to ending a sentence with a preposition, also object to ending a clause with one. As far as Br E is concerned, ending clauses with prepositions is something few people object to these days, even in writing..