Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
4. When writing complex sentences, restrict sub-ordinate clauses to two
5. When writing compound sentences restrict the number of conjunctions to two
A.3.1.2
Single Central Idea
This can be achieved by focussing on the subject and by not introducing additional
subjects in the sentence.
A.3.1.3
Agreement Between Parts
There must be consistency and agreement between parts of the sentence:
1. Subject and verb must agree with each other.
2. Number—Singular/Plural—should
be
consistent
through
the
sentence—
correct examples are:
a. A list of guidelines was given to the auditor.
b. Mr. Smith, as well as his two assistants, was working on the assignment.
c. The software processes, which are maintained by QA, are extremely
complex.
3. Words linked to the subject by expressions such as 'together with', 'as well
as', 'along with', 'including', 'and not', 'in addition to', do not affect the
number of the verb. The correct examples are:
a. The Project Leader, as well as his two Module Leaders and five Team
Members, writes efficient code.
b. The Vice President, and not the Business Unit Heads, was charged with
the responsibility.
4. When the subject is any of the following words or is modified by them, the
verb must be singular. Each, Everybody, Anybody, Nobody, Every, A person,
Either. Example—Each one of the group has a responsibility.
5. When the subject is a collective noun, the meaning to be conveyed shall
determine whether the subject is singular or plural. Example—The committee
were equally divided in supporting the two proposals.
A.3.2
Proper Usage of Verbs
Tenses of verbs in a sentence will accurately indicate the correct sequence of
actions. The verb in a sub-ordinate clause shall therefore take a tense consistent
with the verb in the main clause. Here are some examples of some correct
examples:
1. When the machine stopped, the foreman realized that no one had oiled it.
2. When he had come, I left.
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