Basic Grammar Rules & Correct Usage

Front

What is the rule for subject-verb agreement when the subject is a collective noun?

Back

Collective nouns are usually treated as singular when the group acts as a single unit, but can be plural if the individuals are acting separately.

Front

How do you determine the correct verb form when using 'either...or' constructions?

Back

The verb should agree with the noun closest to it. For example, 'Either the dog or the cats are playing.'

Front

What is the correct verb form when the subject is a singular noun followed by a prepositional phrase?

Back

The verb should be singular. For example, 'The number of students is increasing.'

Front

What is the rule for using 'each' with verbs?

Back

When 'each' is the subject, it takes a singular verb. For example, 'Each of the players twirls.'

Front

How do you use 'none' in a sentence regarding verb agreement?

Back

'None' can be singular or plural depending on the context. If referring to a singular noun, use a singular verb; if plural, use a plural verb.

Front

What is the difference between 'is' and 'are' in terms of subject-verb agreement?

Back

'Is' is used with singular subjects, while 'are' is used with plural subjects.

Front

What is the correct verb form when the subject is a fraction or percentage?

Back

The verb should agree with the noun that follows the fraction or percentage. For example, 'Half of the cake is gone.'

Front

How do you handle compound subjects joined by 'and'?

Back

Compound subjects joined by 'and' typically take a plural verb. For example, 'The cat and dog are playing together.'

Front

What is the rule for using 'there is' and 'there are'?

Back

Use 'there is' for singular nouns and 'there are' for plural nouns. For example, 'There is a book on the table.' vs. 'There are books on the table.'

Front

What is the subject-verb agreement rule for titles of works?

Back

Titles of works are treated as singular, regardless of the number of words in the title. For example, 'The Grapes of Wrath is a classic novel.'