Subject-verb agreement is one of the fundamental rules of grammar that aspiring writers and seasoned ones alike should master. It involves ensuring that the subject (the actor in the sentence) and the verb (the action word) match in number (singular or plural) and person (first, second, or third).

Here are some examples to illustrate the importance of subject-verb agreement:

Incorrect: The group of students was finishing their tests.

Correct: The group of students were finishing their tests.

Explanation: The word “group” is singular, but “students” is plural. Therefore, the verb “were” needs to agree with the plural subject “students.”

Incorrect: The boy and his dog is playing in the park.

Correct: The boy and his dog are playing in the park.

Explanation: “The boy and his dog” is a plural subject, so the verb “are” needs to agree in number.

Incorrect: Each of the books have a different story to tell.

Correct: Each of the books has a different story to tell.

Explanation: “Each” is a singular subject, so the verb “has” also needs to be singular.

Incorrect: He and I was going to the store.

Correct: He and I were going to the store.

Explanation: “He and I” is a plural subject, so the verb “were” should be used instead of “was.”

Incorrect: Either the cat or the dog are making noise.

Correct: Either the cat or the dog is making noise.

Explanation: “Either…or” is a singular conjunction, so the verb “is” should be singular.

In summary, it is essential to pay attention to subject-verb agreement to convey your message clearly and prevent confusion. By ensuring that the subject and verb match in number and person, you can avoid common errors and improve the clarity and effectiveness of your writing.