When learning the French language, I found it tricky to know when to use the subjunctive mood and when to use the indicative mood. Here’s what I discovered:

When to Use the Subjunctive:

1. Talking About Feelings or Wishes:

   • Use the subjunctive when you want to express your feelings or desires.
   • For example, if you say, “Je souhaite que tu réussisses” (I wish that you succeed), the word “réussisses” is in the subjunctive because it shows a wish.

2. When You're Unsure or Doubtful:

   • The subjunctive comes in handy when there’s doubt or uncertainty.
   • You can use phrases like “Il est possible que” (It is possible that) followed by the subjunctive. For instance, “Il est possible que tu viennes” (It’s possible that you come).

3. When Something Is Necessary:

   • If something must happen, you use the subjunctive.
   • For example, “Il faut que tu sois là” (You must be there). Here, “sois” is in the subjunctive because it shows a necessity.

4. Certain Connecting Words:

   • Some words that connect ideas make the subjunctive necessary, like “bien que” (although) and “pour que” (so that).
   • For example: “Bien que je sache” (Although I know).

Indicative vs. Subjunctive:

• Indicative Mood: This is for stating facts. For example, “Je sais” (I know).
• Subjunctive Mood: This is for expressing doubt, feelings, or things that are not certain.

Quick Tips:

• If you feel like you’re talking about feelings, doubts, or wishes, you should use the subjunctive!
• The more you practice, the better you’ll get. Try to use more subjunctive sentences when you speak or write!

At first, it might be confusing to switch between these moods, but once you learn the signs, using them will feel easier in your French conversations!