As a copy editor, it is important to ensure that the content you edit is not only grammatically correct, but also optimized for search engines. For this reason, it is necessary to consider how the content is written and structured, including the use of verbs.
One common area where writers tend to make mistakes is in verb agreement. When constructing sentences, it is crucial to ensure that the subject and verb agree in terms of number, tense, and mood.
To help writers and editors improve their understanding of verb agreement, a worksheet can be helpful. Here is an example of a worksheet on verb agreement:
Instructions:
Read each sentence carefully and identify the subject and verb. Determine whether the subject and verb agree in terms of number, tense, and mood. If they do not agree, rewrite the sentence to correct the agreement.
1. The group of students was planning their trip to the museum.
Subject: group of students
Verb: was planning
Agreement: The subject and verb do not agree in terms of number. The subject is singular, and the verb is plural. The correct sentence should be: The group of students was planning its trip to the museum.
2. Each of the cats were meowing loudly.
Subject: each of the cats
Verb: were meowing
Agreement: The subject and verb do not agree in terms of number. The subject is singular, and the verb is plural. The correct sentence should be: Each of the cats was meowing loudly.
3. My aunt and uncle is coming to visit me next week.
Subject: my aunt and uncle
Verb: is coming
Agreement: The subject and verb do not agree in terms of number. The subject is plural, and the verb is singular. The correct sentence should be: My aunt and uncle are coming to visit me next week.
4. She wished that she could have been there to see the concert.
Subject: she
Verb: could have been
Agreement: The subject and verb agree in terms of number, tense, and mood.
5. The baseball team is practicing for their next game.
Subject: baseball team
Verb: is practicing
Agreement: The subject and verb do not agree in terms of number. The subject is singular, and the verb is plural. The correct sentence should be: The baseball team is practicing for its next game.
By completing this worksheet, writers and editors can improve their understanding of verb agreement and avoid making common mistakes. By doing so, they can ensure that the content they create and edit is both grammatically correct and optimized for search engines.