A verb must match its true subject in number, and the true subject is often not the noun closest to the verb.
In the sentence the box of old letters sits on the shelf, the subject is box, so the verb is singular even though letters is plural. Words such as each, neither, and everyone take singular verbs. Compound subjects joined by and are plural, while either-or and neither-nor make the verb agree with the nearer subject.
Subject–verb agreement questions on the SHSAT often show a short numbered paragraph and ask which sentence contains an error, so every verb deserves a check against its subject.
Sample questions
Pick an answer to see whether it is right — nothing is saved, and nothing needs an account.
Question 1Easier
Which edit should be made to correct the sentence?
The telescope is the only one of the instruments that require a special filter.
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Answer: A — Change require to requires.
In the construction the only one...that, the relative clause identifies the singular word one, so “Change require to requires” establishes subject-verb agreement. “Change special to specially” puts an adverb before a noun and leaves the verb error in place, while “Change one to ones” disrupts agreement with telescope. “Change instruments to instrument” makes the phrase one of the instrument ungrammatical.
Question 2Easier
Which sentence contains an error in its construction and should be revised?
(1) Each morning, a collection of hand-painted directional signs hangs beside the community hall’s side entrance before visitors arrive. (2) The volunteers who arrange the display works in pairs so that every sign faces the correct walkway. (3) Every stack of unused posters contains an inventory slip that lists its intended location. (4) The finished signs, along with a printed schedule, remain protected under a wide canvas cover until opening time.
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Answer: B — sentence 2
A plural subject requires a plural verb, so “sentence 2” should use “work” with “volunteers.” “Sentence 1” correctly pairs “collection” with “hangs,” and “sentence 3” correctly pairs “Every stack” with “contains.” In “sentence 4,” the plural subject “signs” correctly agrees with “remain”; the phrase “along with a printed schedule” does not change the subject’s number.
Question 3Easier
Which sentence contains an error in its construction and should be revised?
(1) During rehearsal, each of the stagehands is assigned a specific curtain, platform, or piece of scenery. (2) Several of the musicians have also offered to move lightweight props between scenes. (3) Neither of the two side doors appears wide enough for the largest painted backdrop. (4) One of the lighting panels near those doors need a new power cord before the final practice begins.
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Answer: D — sentence 4
A singular subject requires a singular verb, so “sentence 4” should use “needs” with “One.” “Sentence 1” correctly pairs “each” with “is,” “sentence 2” correctly pairs “Several” with “have,” and “sentence 3” correctly pairs “Neither” with “appears.” The plural nouns inside the modifying phrases do not determine the verbs.
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