Using "that"

[gjo123]

What is the criteria for deciding when to use or not use the word "that" in a sentence? For example, which is correct:
I hope you are well today.
I hope that you are well today.

[gjo123]

Which sentence below is correct and how do I test the decision to use "that" or not use the word "that"?
I hope you are well today.
I hope that you are well today.

[DavyBCN]

What is the criteria for deciding when to use or not use the word "that" in a sentence? For example, which is correct:
I hope you are well today.
I hope that you are well today.

Both are correct. In everyday speech (British English at least) we often leave out that when it used as a conjunction - as in your examples. In reporting what other people said it must be used after some verbs (reply, shout). He said (that) he would come/He replied that he would come". Any good grammar refernce will tell you which verbs need that.

It is also usually used after a noun - "my view is that we should all learn languages."

[gjo123]

Thanks, Davy BCN, for your helpful reply. There is one point on which I need clarification, however: When you said "that" is usually used after a noun, did you mean linking verb instead? It is difficult to locate what I am looking for in my grammar books.

[DavyBCN]

Thanks, Davy BCN, for your helpful reply. There is one point on which I need clarification, however: When you said "that" is usually used after a noun, did you mean linking verb instead? It is difficult to locate what I am looking for in my grammar books.

Sorrry Dean, I typed the example incorrectly. Should have been "it is my view that we should all learn a language". You can omit "that" in this example but people normally do not.