In standard English, a finite verb agrees with its subject in person and number. First identify the main subject; a nearby noun may belong to a phrase and may not control the verb. These examples focus on common school-level patterns rather than every exception in English usage.
Start with the main subject
In the simple present, a third-person singular subject usually takes a verb ending in -s or -es: ‘The learner writes.’ A plural subject usually takes the base form: ‘The learners write.’ With be, compare ‘I am’, ‘she is’ and ‘they are’.
A phrase between subject and verb does not usually change agreement. In ‘The box of pencils is open’, box is the main subject. The plural noun pencils does not make the verb plural.
- The teacher, with her students, is waiting.
- The books on the shelf are new.
Common school patterns
Two separate subjects joined by and usually take a plural verb: ‘Rina and Amit are ready.’ Words such as each and everyone normally take singular agreement in formal school writing: ‘Everyone has a notebook.’
In there is or there are constructions, look at the subject that follows. ‘There is a lamp’ and ‘There are two lamps’ describe different numbers. Read the full sentence before choosing an answer.
Put it into practice
A worked example
Choose the verb: ‘The list of chapters (is/are) on the desk.’
- Identify the head of the subject phrase: list.
- List is singular; ‘of chapters’ is a phrase describing it.
Answer: The list of chapters is on the desk.
Try it yourself
Have a go before revealing the answer.
Complete: ‘Each of the players ___ a water bottle.’
Show answer
has.
Answer: has.
Correct: ‘The students in this room studies together.’
Show answer
The students in this room study together.
Answer: The students in this room study together.
Watch out for these
- Do not choose the verb only by looking at the noun immediately before it.
- A singular present-tense verb ending in -s is not the same as a plural noun ending in -s.
Continue with official resources
Match these concept notes to your current textbook and syllabus. They are independent explanations, not official board publications.
