How do you know when to use a singular or plural verb in a sentence?

Answer 1

Verbs are not technically singular and plural, but rather are in "agreement" with the subject being used. "Plural verbs" are used with plural nouns, except where the noun is a "group" plural. Generally speaking, an S noun does not use an S verb. Other improper plurals (men, geese) likewise do not use the S verbs.

Examples :

The boy walks to the store. (The s verb goes with the singular noun.)

The boys walk to the store. (The s noun does not use an s verb.)

The team walks to the park. (group noun)

The family visits the zoo often. (group noun)

Pronouns only use the S verbs for third person singular.

(I sit. We sit. You sit. They sit.) but (he, she, or it sits)

Answer 2

Use a singular verb when the subject is singular (e.g., "The dog barks") and a plural verb when the subject is plural (e.g., "The dogs bark"). Pay attention to the subject of the sentence and ensure that the verb agrees in number with it.