GED RLA - S02.1.4v2
Writing and Language > Grammar and Usage > Subject-Verb Agreement
Important Instructions
"Before starting the test, let's review the essential RULES of answering Subject-Verb Agreement questions. Please read each question carefully and respond to all 30 questions within TIME LIMIT of 32 min.
Subject-Verb Agreement: Key Rules and Examples
1. Singular Subject
Rule: A singular subject requires a singular verb.
Example: The cat jumps over the fence.
The subject "cat" is singular, so the verb "jumps" is in singular form.
2. Plural Subject
Rule: A plural subject requires a plural verb.
Example: The cats jump over the fence.
The subject "cats" is plural, so the verb "jump" matches the plural form.
3. Indefinite Pronouns
Rule:
- Singular indefinite pronouns (e.g., "everyone," "nobody") take singular verbs.
- Plural indefinite pronouns (e.g., "many," "few") take plural verbs.
Examples:
- Everyone loves a good story.
- Many enjoy reading books.
4. Compound Subjects
Rule: When subjects are connected by "and," they are usually plural.
Example: John and Sarah walk to school every day.
Note: When subjects are connected by "or" or "nor," the verb agrees with the subject closer to it.
- Either the teacher or the students are responsible for decorating the classroom.
- Either the students or the teacher is responsible for decorating the classroom.
5. Collective Nouns
Rule: Collective nouns like "team," "family," or "group" can be singular or plural, depending on whether you're referring to the group as a single unit or as individuals.
- The team is celebrating its victory. (The team as a single unit.)
- The team are arguing about their strategies. (The team as individuals.)
6. Using "Has" and "Have"
Rule: The verbs "has" and "have" are used to indicate possession or actions in the present tense. "Has" is used with singular subjects, while "have" is used with plural subjects.
- Has: Used with singular subjects (he, she, it).
- Have: Used with plural subjects (they, we, you), and with "I" or "you" in the singular.
Examples:
- She has a new book. (singular subject)
- They have new books. (plural subject)
- I have a pencil. (singular subject, but "I" uses "have")
- We have finished the homework. (plural subject)
Final Tip
Remember, the key to mastering subject-verb agreement is identifying whether the subject is singular or plural. From there, choose the verb form that matches.
