Subject-verb agreement is the foundational cornerstone of English grammar. In every sentence, the verb must strictly agree with its subject in number (singular or plural) and person. Here are the 10 golden rules you must know to ace competitive exams and daily writing.
Rule 1: Singular Subject takes Singular Verb; Plural takes Plural
Basic rule: If the subject is singular, add -s or -es to the present tense verb. If plural, use the base form.
Correct: The student studies diligently every evening.
Correct: The students study diligently every evening.
Rule 2: Don't Get Confused by Words Between Subject and Verb
Prepositional phrases often separate the subject from its verb. Always look past prepositional phrases like along with, together with, as well as, in addition to.
Incorrect: The manager, along with her assistants, were present.
Correct: The manager, along with her assistants, was present.
Rule 3: "Either... Or" and "Neither... Nor" (Proximity Rule)
When two subjects are joined by either... or or neither... nor, the verb agrees with the subject closest to it.
Correct: Neither the teacher nor the students were satisfied.
Correct: Neither the students nor the teacher was satisfied.
Rule 4: Indefinite Pronouns are Usually Singular
Words like each, everyone, someone, nobody, either, neither are grammatically singular.
Correct: Each of the answers is correct.
Correct: Everyone has submitted their assignment.
Rule 5: Collective Nouns: Group as a Single Unit
Words like team, committee, audience, jury, family take singular verbs when acting as a unified body, but plural verbs if individual members act separately.
Unified: The committee has reached an agreement.
Divided: The jury were divided in their opinions.