Mastering Subject/Verb Agreement: A PERT Essential

    Have you ever struggled with the little nuances of English grammar? Specifically, subject and verb agreement can trip up even the most seasoned writers from time to time. It's essential to grasp these rules, especially if you're getting ready for the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT). Let’s dig into a crucial aspect: knowing how to make your subjects and verbs agree. 

    So, how do you tackle tricky questions like this one? Here’s a prime example: 

    **Choose the correct subject/verb agreement:**

    A. Sandria and her three friends loves to eat Mexican food.

    B. Sandria, along with her three friends, love to eat Mexican food.

    C. Sandria and her three friends love to eat Mexican food.

    D. B and C.

    Now, let's break this down. The correct answer is C: "Sandria and her three friends love to eat Mexican food." Why? Because "Sandria and her three friends" forms a compound subject. When you have a compound subject, the verb has to be in the plural form to match, which makes "love" the right choice here.

    You might think that option A could seem appealing at first glance. However, it stumbles over the subject/verb agreement by using "loves," which is singular and doesn't match our group of friends. And option B, well, it’s a bit tricky. That phrase "along with" can create confusion. It seems to suggest that only Sandria is the subject, but remember: it's still a compound subject, and "love" remains the appropriate verb.

    This aspect of grammar isn't just a matter of rules; it's about clarity in communication. You know what I mean? Misunderstanding agreement can lead to mixed signals and confusion. Imagine you’re chatting with a friend. If you said, “My friends and I eats tacos every Tuesday,” your friend might be puzzled and wonder, “Wait, is it just you that eats, or are we all in for taco night?”

    Just think about how vital it is to express yourself clearly. Correct grammar helps your readers breeze through your writing without stumbling over awkwardly worded sentences. That said, mastering subject/verb agreement isn’t just about passing tests or looking smart—it’s about effective communication. Picture this as your stepping stone towards fluency.

    **Why Subject/Verb Agreement Matters in PERT Prep**

    As you study for the PERT, you'll encounter numerous grammar-related challenges. Subject/verb agreement features prominently, so investing time to ensure you're comfortable with these structures can make a big difference. Plus, it enhances your comprehension and writing skills—not just for tests, but throughout your academic journey.

    Here’s the thing: Playing around with examples can help solidify your understanding. For instance, what about “Neither the cats nor the dog likes to misbehave”? Here, "dog" is the subject that pulls the verb "likes" into singular territory. Or how about this: “The team are ready to play”? Nope—better change that to “The team is ready.” Isn’t it fascinating how a slight change can flip the whole meaning?

    If you find yourself studying late at night with a cup of coffee in hand, remember to revisit subject/verb agreement. It's those little details that can elevate your writing and comprehension, making your work shine brighter during the PERT or any future academic challenges. 

    In conclusion, when you're preparing for exams and honing your grammar skills, practice makes perfect! Engage with questions, practice scenarios, and don’t shy away from seeking feedback. Every little bit of learning counts, and before you know it, you’ll be breezing through subject/verb relationships like a pro.