Verbs

1.  Always use the correct verb form. 

Consult a guide for help with irregular verbs.

2.  Additional subject-verb agreement rules:

• “There” or “here” is never the subject.
  Examples: There are two books on the subject.
  Here are the paints you need.

• Treat two subjects joined by and as a plural subject; think of the conjunctive and as a plus sign.
  Example:  The parents and their child sit in this room while waiting.
  

• When two subjects are joined by or or nor, make the verb agree with the subject nearer the verb.
  Example:  Marjorie or her kids are going with us.

• A collective noun usually takes a singular verb.
  Example:  The committee meets on Monday, at 1:30.

• In formal writing, treat anybody, anyone, everybody, everyone, nobody, no one, and nothing as singular nouns.
  Example:  Everyone in the offices was surprised when students brought their children to class to demonstrate for more on-campus daycare.