Subject-verb agreement is a fundamental concept in English grammar that is tested extensively in the GMAT verbal section. A proper understanding of subject-verb agreement is necessary for success on the GMAT, as it can make a vast difference in sentence structure, meaning, and clarity. In this article, we will explore the basics of subject-verb agreement and how it is tested on the GMAT.
What is Subject-Verb Agreement?
Subject-verb agreement pertains to the association of singular or plural subjects with the respective verbs that match in number. In simpler terms, a singular subject should take a singular verb, while a plural subject should take a plural verb. For instance, “The cat purrs” but “The cats purr.” This rule applies to all tenses of verbs, including present tense, past tense, and future tense.
Common Mistakes in Subject-Verb Agreement
One of the most common subject-verb agreement mistakes is when a subject is separated from its verb by other words or clauses. It often leads to confusion and may result in an incorrect verb choice. Another common mistake is when the subject appears to be plural, but the verb is in the singular form. It usually happens with nouns like “politics,” “mathematics,” or “ethics,” which are singular and require a singular verb.
How is Subject-Verb Agreement Tested on the GMAT?
The GMAT verbal section tests subject-verb agreement in several ways. The most common question type is the sentence correction questions, which test the candidate`s ability to identify and correct grammatical errors in sentences. Many of the sentence correction questions on the GMAT require the test-taker to determine the correct subject-verb agreement.
In addition to the sentence correction questions, subject-verb agreement is also tested in the reading comprehension questions. In these questions, the candidate is required to demonstrate the ability to comprehend the meaning of a passage while identifying the correct subject-verb agreement.
Tips for Mastering Subject-Verb Agreement
1. Identify the Subject: The first step in mastering subject-verb agreement is identifying the subject of the sentence. Once you identify the subject, it becomes easier to determine the correct verb form.
2. Pay Attention to Indefinite Pronouns: Indefinite pronouns like “everyone,” “anyone,” “someone,” and “no one” are singular and require a singular verb. For example, “Everyone is going to the party,” not “Everyone are going to the party.”
3. Be Aware of Collective Nouns: Collective nouns like “family,” “team,” and “committee” appear to be singular, but they can be singular or plural depending on the context. If you are referring to the group as a single entity, use a singular verb. If you are referring to the individual members of the group, use a plural verb. For example, “The committee is discussing the proposal” versus “The committee members are discussing the proposal.”
4. Double Check Your Verbs: Always double-check your verbs to ensure that they match the subject in number and tense. Remember, even a small mistake in subject-verb agreement can drastically alter the meaning of a sentence.
In conclusion, subject-verb agreement is a fundamental concept in English grammar that is crucial to master for success on the GMAT. By understanding the rules of subject-verb agreement, avoiding common mistakes, and practicing effectively, you can confidently tackle the GMAT verbal section and achieve your desired score.