11 Other memories Nouns that end in “s” but are in fact only an object take on plural verbs. E.B. Pants, pliers and scissors Remember to carefully look for topics separated from the verb by words or phrases. Ex. John, like his two friends, works in the pizzeria. 10 reminders Remember that your topic will NEVER be “there”, so pay attention to unusual wording in your sentences. Ex. On the desk are papers. Ex. A spider hangs on the wall. Remember that nouns such as mumps, measles, news, mathematics, and economics take singular verbs. 4 Composite topics If the topics are related by “or”, “neither”, “not only/but also”, etc., use the subject closest to the verb to determine whether the verb should be singular or plural ex. Neither the boys nor their sister do the laundry.
Ex. Neither the girl nor her brothers do the laundry. .