Subject-verb agreement is a crucial aspect of writing that can make or break the effectiveness of your content. It refers to the agreement in number between the subject and the verb in a sentence, ensuring consistency and clarity. In this article, we’ll explore the best subject-verb agreement rules to follow for SEO-friendly content.

1. Always make sure the subject and verb agree in number – Many people make the mistake of using a singular verb with a plural subject or vice versa. This can lead to confusion and make your content appear unprofessional. For example, “The team are” should be “The team is” as a team is a single entity.

2. Use singular verbs with singular nouns – When a subject is singular, the verb should also be singular. For instance, “The dog runs” should be “The dog run.”

3. Use plural verbs with plural nouns – When the subject is plural, the verb should also be plural. For example, “The dogs run” should be “The dogs runs.”

4. Pay attention to compound subjects – When two or more subjects are joined by “and,” the verb should be plural. For instance, “John and Sarah go” should be “John and Sarah goes.”

5. Be careful with collective nouns – Collective nouns, such as team, group, or committee, can be treated as singular or plural depending on the context. For example, “The committee was” should be “The committee were” depending on whether it is being referred to as a singular unit or as individuals.

6. Use “either/or” and “neither/nor” with singular verbs – When using these words, the verb should agree with the subject closest to it. For instance, “Neither John nor Sarah likes” should be “Neither John nor Sarah like.”

7. Be consistent with tense – Inconsistent tenses can confuse readers and damage the credibility of your content. Ensure that the tense of both the subject and the verb match throughout the sentence or paragraph.

In summary, subject-verb agreement is an essential element of good writing and can significantly impact the effectiveness of your content. By adhering to these rules, you’ll ensure that your content is clear, concise, and professional, making it more appealing to readers and search engines alike.