Subject-Verb Agreement — SAT Reading & Writing Explained
A subject and its verb must agree in number: singular subjects take singular verbs; plural subjects take plural verbs. Agreement errors occur when the subject and verb are separated by intervening phrases or clauses that can mislead the ear.
The Core Idea
The verb must agree with its grammatical subject, not with the nearest noun. Prepositional phrases, relative clauses, and parenthetical expressions between subject and verb are 'noise' that must be mentally stripped away to identify the true subject.
Key Rules
'The student [singular] takes the exam.' 'The students [plural] take the exam.'
'The box of apples [subject = box, singular] is on the table.' Not 'are.'
'Math and science [plural] are required.'
Verb agrees with the closer subject: 'Either the teachers or the principal is responsible.'
Each, every, everyone, nobody, someone → singular verb
Common Errors to Avoid
Agreeing the verb with the object of a preposition instead of the subject
Using a plural verb after 'everyone,' 'nobody,' or 'each'
Misidentifying the subject when it follows the verb (inverted sentences)
How This Connects to Other Topics
Works with Verb Tense Consistency and is foundational to all grammar
Practice: Subject-Verb Agreement
5 SAT-style questions. Select your answer and get an instant explanation.
Either the coaches or the athletic director _____ responsible for scheduling.
Which choice completes the sentence so that it conforms to Standard English?
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