Proper subject-verb agreement is essential in writing and cannot be ignored. Inaccurate subject-verb agreement can make your writing difficult to read and cause misunderstanding, leading to poor communication with your audience.

With grammar rules being a foundational element in the English language, it`s essential to understand the basics of subject-verb agreement to improve your writing skills. Here are some frequently asked questions on English grammar subject-verb agreement and solutions to consider:

What is subject-verb agreement?

Subject-verb agreement refers to the correct correlation between the subject and the verb in a sentence. For example, in the sentence, « The dogs bark, » the subject is « dogs, » and the verb is « bark ». The subject-verb agreement in this sentence is correct because « dogs » is plural, and « bark » is in the present tense.

What should I do when a sentence has multiple subjects?

When a sentence has multiple subjects, the verb must agree with the subject that is closest. For example, in the sentence, « My sister and her friend are arriving, » the verb agrees with « friend » because it`s closest to the verb. Therefore, the verb should be in the plural form.

How do I know which verb to use when there is a compound subject?

When you have a compound subject, it`s important to remember that a singular subject requires a singular verb, and a plural subject requires a plural verb. For example, in the sentence, « The book and the pen is on the table, » the subject is plural. Therefore, the correct verb to use should be in the plural form- « The book and the pen are on the table. »

What should I do if the subject is a collective noun?

Collective nouns are nouns that reflect a group. Examples include team, family, audience, and staff. When using collective nouns as subjects in a sentence, you should determine whether the group is acting in a single unit or independently. If the group is acting in a single unit, you should use a singular verb. On the other hand, if the group is acting independently, use a plural verb. For example, « The family is going to the park today » and « The family are all great athletes. »

In conclusion, proper subject-verb agreement is vital for clear and effective communication. Ensure that you use the right verb form that matches your subject. With the above tips, you are sure to sharpen your grammar skills and put your writing on a professional level.