Contrast Words-Despite/Although/But/Even though/But

[aaggar7]

Hi,
Please explain the difference and usage of the contrast words mentioned in the subject line.

Usage of these have been very confusing and is often tested on GMAT.Clear rules for these contrast words will help.Thanks in advance.

Some of the rules that I have read are:

Although - Although is always followed by a clause.

Despite - According to Manhattan SC guide Despite can be followed by a clause but in the BTG link mentioned below it is mentioned that Despite should be followed by a noun.

https://www.beatthegmat.com/despite-vs-e ... 67387.html

[Jim@StratusPrep]

If you use a noun after despite you will need to use 'that' as well.

Despite the fact that....

Generally speaking though, a clause and not a noun will follow.