Subject-verb agreement is one of the most important grammar rules that every writer and editor needs to master. In English, the verb changes its form depending on the number and person of the subject. Incorrect subject-verb agreement can make your writing look unprofessional and difficult to read. Therefore, it`s essential to practice subject-verb agreement exercises to avoid common mistakes. In this article, we`ll cover the basics of subject-verb agreement and suggest some practice exercises to help you improve your grammar skills.

What is Subject-Verb Agreement?

Subject-verb agreement is the match between the subject and the verb in a sentence. If the subject is singular, the verb should also be singular, and if the subject is plural, the verb should also be plural. For example, “She is” is correct, but “She are” is incorrect. Similarly, “They are” is correct, but “They is” is incorrect.

Here are some general rules to follow when it comes to subject-verb agreement:

1. Singular subjects take singular verbs, and plural subjects take plural verbs.

2. Compound subjects joined by “and” take plural verbs. For example, “Mary and John are” is correct, but “Mary and John is” is incorrect.

3. Singular indefinite pronouns, such as “each,” “either,” and “neither,” take singular verbs. For example, “Each of them is” is correct, but “Each of them are” is incorrect.

4. Plural indefinite pronouns, such as “some,” “many,” and “few,” take plural verbs. For example, “Some of them are” is correct, but “Some of them is” is incorrect.

Practice Exercises

To improve your subject-verb agreement skills, here are some practice exercises you can do:

1. Identify the correct verb form for each sentence:

– The cat (sleeps/sleep) on the couch.

– The dogs (bark/barks) loudly.

– Each of the students (is/are) responsible for their own work.

– The committee (has/have) finished its report.

– The group of friends (enjoys/enjoy) going to the movies together.

2. Choose the correct verb form from the given options:

– My brother and I (is/are) going to the party tonight.

– The book on the shelf (belongs/belong) to the library.

– Neither of the options (appeals/appeal) to me.

– The team (wins/win) the championship every year.

– The majority of the voters (has/have) decided to support the candidate.

3. Rewrite the following sentences with correct subject-verb agreement:

– The boys plays basketball after school.

– Each of the students are required to attend the meeting.

– The committee have disagreements regarding the budget.

– A group of musicians is performing in the park.

– Some of the cookies is missing from the jar.

Final Thoughts

Correct subject-verb agreement can make all the difference in your writing. With practice exercises like the ones suggested above, you can improve your grammar skills and make your writing clearer and more professional. Remember to pay attention to the number and person of the subject and choose the correct verb form accordingly. With time and practice, you`ll be able to master subject-verb agreement and become a better writer and editor.