Classic Errors and Helpful Hints

Remember to use a plural verb with a plural subject and a singular verb with a singular subject. This may sound obvious, but there are several reasons why it may become less straightforward:

• Some words look as though they are singular when they are in fact plural, especially words ending in -a like criteria, bacteria, and phenomena. The singular forms for these are criterion, bacterium, and phenomenon. Use plural verbs:
  'The bacteria multiply rapidly' (not 'multiplies');
  'These are important criteria' (not 'This is an important criteria').

• In Latin, data and media are plural nouns. In English they used to be treated as plurals and took a plural verb; now, however, unless you are writing in a formal scientific context you should regard them as normal singular nouns that go with a singular verb.

• Collective nouns (e.g. crew, team, government, committee) can be treated as either singular or plural. As a general rule, it is best to use a plural form when emphasizing the separate members of the group (e.g. 'The committee were arguing about the finances') and a singular form when treating the group as a whole ('The committee is delighted to offer you the prize').