What are the basic rules for subject-verb agreement?

Subject-verb agreement is a fundamental aspect of grammar that ensures that the subject and verb in a sentence are in agreement in terms of number and person. Here are the basic rules for subject-verb agreement:

1. Singular subjects take singular verbs, while plural subjects take plural verbs. For example:
- The cat jumps over the fence. (singular subject "cat" takes singular verb "jumps")
- The cats jump over the fence. (plural subject "cats" takes plural verb "jump")

2. When a sentence contains compound subjects joined by "and," the verb should be plural. For example:
- John and Mary are going to the party. (plural subjects "John" and "Mary" take plural verb "are")

3. When a sentence contains compound subjects joined by "or" or "nor," the verb agrees with the subject closest to it. For example:
- Neither the dog nor the cats are allowed on the couch. (plural subject "cats" closest to the verb "are" determines the verb form)

4. Indefinite pronouns, such as "everyone," "someone," "anyone," and "nobody," are singular and require singular verbs. For example:
- Everyone is invited to the meeting. (singular subject "everyone" takes singular verb "is")

5. Collective nouns, such as "team," "family," or "committee," can be singular or plural depending on the context. If the members of the group are acting as individuals, use a plural verb. If the group is acting as a single unit, use a singular verb. For example:
- The team is practicing for the game. (singular subject "team" acting as a unit takes singular verb "is")
- The team are arguing among themselves. (plural subject "team" acting as individuals takes plural verb "are")

6. When using words like "each," "every," "either," "neither," or "none," the verb should be singular. For example:
- Each student has to submit their assignment. (singular subject "each student" takes singular verb "has")

7. In sentences that begin with "there" or "here," the subject follows the verb. The verb should agree with the subject, not the word "there" or "here." For example:
- There are many books on the shelf. (plural subject "books" takes plural verb "are")

8. Titles of books, movies, or other works that are singular take singular verbs, even if they have plural words in them. For example:
- "The Lord of the Rings" is a popular book series. (singular title "The Lord of the Rings" takes singular verb "is")

These are some of the basic rules for subject-verb agreement. Adhering to these rules helps to ensure grammatical accuracy and clarity in writing and speaking.