The Basics
* Singular subjects take singular verbs.
* Plural subjects take plural verbs.
Examples
* Singular: The *dog* barks loudly.
* Plural: The *dogs* bark loudly.
Common Challenges
1. Words Between the Subject and Verb:
* Ignore these words: The *cat*, along with its kittens, *is* sleeping. (The subject is *cat*, which is singular.)
* Focus on the true subject: The *teacher*, *who is very patient*, *is* well-respected. (The subject is *teacher*, which is singular.)
2. Collective Nouns (Groups):
* Singular verb if the group acts as one: The *committee* agrees on the proposal.
* Plural verb if the group acts as individuals: The *committee* are divided on the issue.
3. Compound Subjects:
* And: The *cat* and the *dog* are playing.
* Or/Nor: The *cat* or the *dog* is playing. (Use the verb that agrees with the closest subject.)
4. Indefinite Pronouns:
* Singular: Each, either, neither, one, everyone, anyone, nobody, someone
* *Everyone* is excited about the party.
* Plural: Both, few, many, several
* *Both* are good choices.
* Depends on context: Some, all, any, none
* *Some* of the pie* is** gone.
* *Some* of the students* are** absent.
5. Subject-Verb Inversions
* Question sentences: *Is* the *cat* sleeping? (The subject is *cat*)
* There/Here sentences: *There* are *many ways* to solve the problem.
6. Words That Sound Plural But Are Singular:
* News, politics, mathematics, physics, etc.
* The *news* is good today.
7. Titles and Names:
* *The Grapes of Wrath* is a classic novel.
* *The United States* is a vast country.
Tips for Success
1. Identify the subject: Who or what is performing the action?
2. Determine if the subject is singular or plural.
3. Choose the verb that agrees with the subject.
4. Don't be tricked by words that come between the subject and verb.
Let me know if you have any other questions about subject-verb agreement!