Subject-verb agreement is a crucial grammar rule that helps ensure the clarity and coherence of written communication. In GMAT questions, mastering this rule is particularly important, as errors can have a significant impact on the candidate`s score.

In this article, we`ll explore the basics of subject-verb agreement and provide some tips for tackling related GMAT questions.

What is subject-verb agreement?

Subject-verb agreement refers to the grammatical relationship between a subject and its corresponding verb. In English, the verb must agree with the subject in terms of number and person. This means that if the subject is singular, the verb must be singular, and if the subject is plural, the verb must be plural.

For example:

– The cat sleeps. (singular subject, singular verb)

– The cats sleep. (plural subject, plural verb)

Similarly, the verb must agree with the person of the subject. In English, there are three persons: first (I, we), second (you), and third (he, she, it, they). The verb must match the person of the subject.

For example:

– I run. (first person singular subject, singular verb)

– She runs. (third person singular subject, singular verb)

– We run. (first person plural subject, plural verb)

Why is subject-verb agreement important in GMAT questions?

Subject-verb agreement is a key aspect of written communication and is particularly important in GMAT questions. The GMAT is a test of analytical and critical thinking skills and requires candidates to analyze written text and make logical conclusions. Errors in subject-verb agreement can disrupt the flow of communication and make it difficult to understand the intended meaning.

In addition, GMAT questions often involve complex and lengthy sentences, which can make it challenging to identify the subject and its corresponding verb. Understanding subject-verb agreement can help candidates navigate these questions more effectively and avoid costly errors.

Tips for tackling subject-verb agreement questions on the GMAT

1. Identify the subject and verb

The first step in tackling subject-verb agreement questions on the GMAT is to identify the subject and verb in the given sentence. Pay close attention to the meaning and structure of the sentence to ensure that you correctly identify the subject and verb.

2. Check for agreement

Once you have identified the subject and verb, check to make sure that they are in agreement. Remember that the verb must match the number and person of the subject. If there is an error, determine whether the subject or verb needs to be changed to ensure agreement.

3. Watch for tricky subjects

Some GMAT questions feature tricky subjects that can make it difficult to identify the correct verb form. For example, collective nouns (e.g., team, group) can be singular or plural depending on the context.

Similarly, compound subjects (e.g., Mary and John) can be either singular or plural depending on whether they are joined by “and” or “or.” Be sure to carefully consider the meaning and structure of the sentence to determine the correct verb form for these types of subjects.

4. Practice, practice, practice

As with any grammar rule, the best way to master subject-verb agreement is through practice. Take advantage of GMAT practice tests and resources to hone your skills and become more comfortable with identifying and correcting errors in subject-verb agreement.

In conclusion, subject-verb agreement is a crucial grammar rule that plays a critical role in effective communication. In GMAT questions, mastering this rule is particularly important, as errors can negatively impact your score. By following these tips and practicing regularly, you can improve your subject-verb agreement skills and excel on the GMAT.