How to Fix Subject-Verb Agreement Errors in Sentences

Subject-verb agreement is a fundamental concept in English grammar that ensures the subject and verb in a sentence match in number. When the subject is plural, the verb must also be in its plural form. A common mistake occurs when students overlook this rule, leading to sentences that sound incorrect or awkward.

Consider the sentence: 'All of the residents uses the courtyard daily, so everybody picks up the trash and pulls weeds.' The verb 'uses' is incorrectly used here because 'residents' is a plural noun. To correct this sentence, you should change 'uses' to 'use'. The corrected sentence reads: 'All of the residents use the courtyard daily, so everybody picks up the trash and pulls weeds.' This adjustment aligns the verb with the plural subject, enhancing the clarity and correctness of the sentence.

### Examples of Subject-Verb Agreement
To further illustrate this concept, let’s examine a few more examples:
1. **Correct:** The dogs bark loudly. (Plural subject 'dogs' matches with plural verb 'bark')
**Incorrect:** The dogs barks loudly. (The verb 'barks' should be 'bark' to agree with the plural subject)
2. **Correct:** The teacher explains the lesson clearly. (Singular subject 'teacher' matches with singular verb 'explains')
**Incorrect:** The teacher explain the lesson clearly. (The verb 'explain' should be 'explains' to agree with the singular subject)

### Importance of Subject-Verb Agreement
Understanding subject-verb agreement is crucial not only for writing but also for speaking clearly and effectively. Proper agreement helps convey your thoughts accurately and makes your communication more professional. In academic settings, demonstrating a solid grasp of grammar can enhance your writing grades and improve your overall literacy.

### Real-World Applications
In real life, subject-verb agreement can impact various forms of communication, from emails and reports to essays and presentations. For instance, in a business report, using correct grammar reflects attention to detail and professionalism, which can influence how your ideas are received. Additionally, mastering this rule can aid in crafting clear and persuasive arguments, essential skills in both academic and professional contexts.

By practicing subject-verb agreement through writing exercises, reading, and peer reviews, you can improve your grammar skills and boost your confidence in both written and spoken English. Don’t hesitate to revisit these fundamental rules as you continue to advance in your studies and real-world interactions.