Reading & WritingStandard English ConventionsHigh frequency
SAT Reading & Writing: Subject-Verb Agreement: Inverted Sentences
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What you need to know
The concept, explained
- 1
Normally, subjects come before verbs. In an inverted sentence (often starting with a prepositional phrase like "Under the bridge" or "There is"), the verb comes FIRST.
- 2
You must scan PAST the verb to find the true subject, then ensure they agree.
- 3
Incorrect: "Through the dense fog swims the sharks." (Subject is "sharks" [plural], so verb must be "swim").
- 4
Correct: "Through the dense fog swim the sharks."
Common mistakes
- ✗ Looking at the singular noun in the introductory prepositional phrase ("the fog") and making the verb agree with it, rather than the true subject.
Try a sample question
SAT-style practice
Hidden deep within the cavernous ruins _____ a chest of gold coins and ancient artifacts.
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