Subject-verb agreement means the verb in a sentence must match the subject in number (singular or plural) and person (first, second, third).

This rule is essential for forming grammatically correct sentences in English.

For example: 'She walks to school.' (singular subject, singular verb) vs. 'They walk to school.' (plural subject, plural verb)

A singular subject takes a singular verb. A plural subject takes a plural verb.

Most singular verbs end in -s (he runs, she eats). Plural verbs do not (they run, we eat).

Verbs change depending on the person (I, you, he/she/it, we, they) and number (singular/plural).

First person: I am, we are. Second person: you are. Third person: he is, they are.

Some subjects look plural but are singular (e.g., news, mathematics).

Subjects joined by 'and' are usually plural, but if they refer to one thing, use a singular verb.

Indefinite pronouns (everyone, someone, each) are usually singular.

Collective nouns (team, family, group) can be singular or plural depending on context.

• The news is on at 7 PM.
• Bread and butter is my favorite breakfast.
• Each of the students has a book.
• Everyone is invited to the party.
• The team is winning. (as a single unit)
• The team are arguing. (as individuals)

When two subjects are joined by 'and', use a plural verb: 'Tom and Jerry are friends.'

If joined by 'or', 'nor', the verb agrees with the subject closest to it: 'Neither the teacher nor the students are present.'

• My brother and sister live in London.
• Either the cat or the dogs are outside.
• Neither the manager nor the employees were late.

Ignore phrases between the subject and verb when deciding agreement: 'The bouquet of roses smells lovely.' (bouquet is the subject)

Incorrect: The list of items are on the table. Correct: The list of items is on the table.

Most indefinite pronouns are singular: everyone, someone, anybody, each, nobody, etc.

Some are plural: few, many, several, both. Some can be singular or plural: all, some, none.

Collective nouns refer to groups (team, family, class). Use singular verb if acting as one unit, plural if acting as individuals.

• The family is going on vacation.
• The family are packing their bags.

Watch out for phrases between the subject and verb that do not affect agreement.

Be careful with collective nouns (team, family, group) which can be singular or plural depending on context.

Do not be misled by words that come between the subject and verb.

Incorrect: The list of items are on the table. Correct: The list of items is on the table.

The team is winning. (as a single unit) / The team are arguing. (as individuals)

When in doubt, find the subject and check if it is singular or plural before choosing the verb.

Practice by writing your own sentences and checking for agreement.

Read English books and articles to see subject-verb agreement in context.

Try to identify the subject and verb in every sentence you read or write.

Use grammar quizzes and exercises to test your understanding.