GRAMMAR CLASS

Problem 1. Missing main verb

Remember that every English sentence must have a subject and a main verb.

S V
The sound of the dryer bothers my concentration
Avoid using an – ing form, an infinitive, an auxiliary verb, or another part of
speech instead of a main verb.

Example:

Incorrect: The prettiest girl in our class with long brown hair and brown eyes.

Correct:

Incorrect: In my opinion, too soon to make a decision.

Correct:
Incorrect: Do you know whether the movie that starts at seven?
Correct:
Or

Incorrect: Sam almost always a lot of fun.

Correct:
Incorrect: The book that I lent you having a good bibliography.
Correct:

Problem 2. Verbs that require an infinitive in the complement

Remember that the following verbs require an infinitive for a verb in the
complement.

agree decide hesitate need refuse

appear demand hope offer seem

arrange deserve intend plan tend

ask expect learn prepare threaten

claim fail manage pretend wait

consent forget mean promise want

S V C (infinitive) M
We had planned to leave day before yesterday
Avoid using an – ing form after the verbs listed. Avoid using a verb word after
want.

Examples:

1
Incorrect: He wanted speak with Mr. Brown.

Correct:

Incorrect: We demand knowing our status.

Correct:

Incorrect: I intend the inform you that we cannot approve your application.

Correct:

Incorrect: They didn’ t plan buying a car.

Correct:

Incorrect: The weather tends improving in May.

Correct:

Problem 3. Verbs that require an – ing form in the complement

Remember that the following verbs require an – ing form for a verb in the
complement:

admit enjoy recall

appreciate finish recommend

avoid keep regret

complete mention risk

consider miss stop

delay postpone suggest

deny practice tolerate

discuss quit understand

S V C (-ing) M
He enjoys travelling by plane
Avoid using an infinitive after the verbs listed. Forbid may be used with either an
infinitive or an – ing complement, but forbid from is not idiomatic.

Examples

Incorrect: She is considering not to go.

Correct:

Incorrect: We enjoyed talk with your friend.

Correct:

2
Incorrect: Hank completed the writing his thesis this summer.

Correct:

Incorrect: I miss to watch the news when I am travelling.

Correct:

Incorrect: She mentions stop at El Paso in her letter.

Correct:

Problem 4. Verbs phrases that require an – ing form in the complement

Remember that the following verb phrases require an – ing form for a verb in the
complement.

approve of do not mind keep on

be better off forget about look forward to

can’ t help get through object to

count on insist on think about/of

S V Ph C (-ing) M
She forgot about cancelling her appointment
Avoid using an infinitive after the verb phrases listed. Avoid using a verb word
after look forward to and object to.

Remember that the verb BE likely does not require an – ing form but requires an
infinitive in the complement.
Examples:

Incorrect: She is likely knowing.

Correct:

Incorrect: Let’s go to the movie when you get through to study.

Correct:

Incorrect: We can’t help to wonder why she left.

Correct:

Incorrect: I have been looking forward to meet you.

Correct:

Incorrect: We wouldn’ t mind to wait.

Correct:

3
Problem 5. Irregular Past Form
Remember the past forms of the irregular verbs are not the same as the
participles:
S V (Past) M
The concert began at eight o’ clock.
Avoid using a participle instead of a past for simple past statements.
Examples:
Incorrect: They done it very well after they had practiced.

Correct:

Incorrect: Before she run the computer program, she had checked it out with her
supervisor.

Correct:

Incorrect: We eaten dinner in Albuquerque on our vacation last year.

Correct:

Incorrect: My nephew begun working for me about ten years ago.

Correct:

Incorrect: I know that you have been forty on your last birthday.

Correct:

Problems with modals and modal-related patterns

Modals are auxiliary verbs. They are used with main verbs to give additional
meaning to main verbs. The most common modals are listed below, along with
some of the additional meanings that they add to main verbs.
can possibility, ability, permission
could possibility, ability in the past
may probability, permission
might probability
must necessity, logical conclusion
shall future with emphasis
should advice, obligation, prediction
will future
would condition

Problem 6. Modal + Verb Word

Remember that a modal is used with a verb word. A verb word is the dictionary
form of the verb. In some grammar books, the verb word is called the bare

4
infinitive because it appears without the word to. Verb words are very important
in many patterns, but they are used most often with modals.

S modal Verb word

They might visit us

Avoid using an infinitive or an – ing form instead of a verb word after a modal.

Examples

Incorrect: After you show me the way, I can to go by myself.

Correct:

Incorrect: Our friends might stopping to see us on their way to California.

Correct:

Incorrect: I would, if there is time, liking to make a phone call.

Correct:

Incorrect: Beth may, with effort, to pass this course.

Correct:

Incorrect: The flight should to be on time.

Correct:

Problem 7. Logical conclusions—events in the past.

Remember that must is a modal. Must followed by the verb word have
and a participle expresses a logical conclusion based on evidence. The conclusion
is about an event that happened in the past.
Remember that an observation in the present may serve as the basis for a
conclusion about something that happened in the past. For example, “ here is a
message on my desk.” It may be concluded that “ my friend must have called last
night.”
S must have participle past time

My friend must have called last night.

Avoid using should or can instead of must. Avoid using a verb word instead of
have and a participle when referring to events in the past.
Examples
Incorrect: The streets are wet; it should have rained last night.
Correct:

Incorrect: This pen won’ t write; it can have run out of ink (in the past).
Correct:

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Incorrect: The ring that I was looking at is gone; someone else must buy it.
Correct:

Incorrect: He doesn’ t have his keys; he must locked them in his car.
Correct:

Incorrect: I don’t see Martha anywhere; she must be left early.

Correct:

Problem 8. Logical conclusions—Events in the present

Remember that must is a modal. Must followed by be and an – ing form or
an adjective expresses a logical conclusion based on evidence. The conclusion is
about an event that is happening now.
S must be -ing present time

My friend must be calling now

S must be adjective present time

He must be upset now

Avoid using a verb word instead of an – ing form after must be.

Examples
Incorrect: The line is busy; someone should be using the telephone now.
Correct:

Incorrect: Bob is absent; he must have been sick again (now).

Correct:

Incorrect: He is taking a walk; he must have felt better now.

Correct:

Incorrect: She must be study at the library now because all of her books are gone.
Correct:

Incorrect: Sarah must get a divorce (now) because her husband is living in an
apartment.
Correct:

Problem 9. Logical Conclusions—Events that Repeat

Remember that must is a modal. Must followed by a verb word expresses
a logical conclusion based on evidence. The conclusion is about an event that
happens repeatedly.
S must verb word repeated time

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 My friend must call often

Avoid using an infinitive or an – ing form instead of a verb word after must.
Examples:
Incorrect: The light is always out in her room at ten o’ clock; she must have go to
bed early every night.
Correct:

Incorrect: Our neighbors must having a lot of money because they are always
taking expensive trips.
Correct:

Incorrect: He can like his job because he seems very happy.

Correct:

Incorrect: Her English is very good; she must spoken it often.

Correct:

Incorrect: Carol always gets good grades; she should study a lot.
Correct:

Problem 10. Knowledge and ability—Know and Know How

Remember that know followed by a noun expresses knowledge.
S KNOW Noun

I know the answer

Avoid using an infinitive after know.

Remember that know how followed by an infinitive expresses ability.

S KNOW how infinitive

I know how to answer the question

Examples:
Incorrect: If she knew to drive, he would lend her his car.
Correct:

Incorrect: I don’t know to use the card catalog in the library.

Correct:

Incorrect: Until he came to the United States to study, he didn’ t know to cook.
Correct:
Incorrect: Do you know to type?
Correct:

Incorrect: You’ll have to help her because she doesn’ t know to do it.
Correct:

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Exercises:

Part A: Choose the correct answer.

1. Arizona ______________ a very dry climate.

a. has
b. being
c. having
d. with

2. One of the least effective ways of storing information is learning ____________ it.

a. how to repeat
b. repeat
c. to repeat
d. repeat

3. Strauss finished ____________ two of his published compositions before his tenth
birthday.

a. written
b. write
c. to write
d. writing

4. Many modern architects insist on ____________ materials native to the region

that will blend into the surrounding landscape.

a. use
b. to use
c. the use
d. using

5. Before the Angles and Saxons ______________ to England, the Iberians had lived
there.

a. coming
b. come
c. came
d. did come

6. By the time a baby has reached his first birthday, he should, without the help
of an adult, _____________ sit up or stand up.

a. to be able to
b. able to
c. to be able
d. be able to

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7. The theory of Continental Drift assumes that there _______________ long-term
climatic changes in many areas during the past.
a. must have been
b. must be
c. must have
d. must

8. The general public ______________ a large number of computers now, because

prices are beginning to decrease.
a. must buy
b. must have bought
c. must be buying
d. must buying

9. Since more than 50 percent of all marriage in the United States end in divorce,
about half of the children in America must ___________ in single-parent homes.
a. grow up
b. to grow up
c. growing up
d. have grow up

10. In a liberal arts curriculum, it is assumed that graduates will ___________ about
English, languages, literature, history, and the other social sciences.
a. know
b. know how
c. knowledge
d. knowing

Part B: Choose the incorrect word or phrase and correct it.

1. Venomous snakes with modified teeth connected to poison glands

A B

in which the venom is secreted and stored.

C D

2. Representative democracy seemed evolve simultaneously during the

A B C

eighteenth and nineteenth centuries in Britain, Europe, and the United States.

3. Many people have stopped to smoke because they are afraid that it may be

A B C D

harmful to their health.

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4. During Jackson’ s administration, those who did not approve of permit
A B
common people in the White House were shocked by the president’ s
insistence
C
that they be invited into the mansion.
D
5. When Columbus seen the New World, he thought that he had reached the East
A B C
Indies by way of a Western route.
D
6. Many birds will, in the normal course of their migrations, flying
A B
more than three thousand miles to reach their winter homes.
C D
7. When the weather becomes colder we know that the air mass must originated
A B C
in the Arctic rather than over the Gulf of Mexico.
D
8. American buffalo must be reproduce itself again because it has been removed
A B C D
from the endangered species list.

9. Sheep must have mate in fall since the young are born in early spring every
A B C D
year.

10. The Impressionists like Monet and Manet knew to use color in order to create
A B C
an image of reality rather than reality itself.
D

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QUIZ 1

Problems 1—10.

Correct the sentences below.

1. Yesterday rained very hard. So we decided to stay home n watch some TV.

2. My boyfriend doesn’ t know to fix my broken laptop.

3. My boss is never at his office during the lunchtime. He must have eaten
his lunch at a restaurant nearby.

4. My mates and I will, when we are old enough to make our decision, to
move out and live on our own.

5. The head of the human resources department’ s mobile phone cannot be

reached. He must use his mobile to talk to the new manager at the
moment.

6. When the World War II has been over, people started to live in peace like
they used to do before.

7. The new employees are looking forward to hear from the director
whether or not their proposal is granted.

8. At the end of the meeting, the customers managed getting the

reimbursements for the spoilt goods they had bought from that
supermarket.

9. The coal mining companies with a massive income from selling the
product to all over the world.

10. The villain denied to steal from the chemical laboratory.

Good luck.

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 Mid Test Class: _____ Name: __________________________

1. After her famous husband’ s death, Eleanor Rosevelt continued working /

work / the working / to working for peace.

2. The Palo Verde tree has beautiful yellow blossoms / beautiful yellow
blossoms / having beautiful yellow blossoms / with beautiful yellow
blossoms in spring.

3. Insurance rates are not the same for different people because they are not
likely have the same risk.

4. Although fraternal twins are born at the same time, they do not tend
resembling each other any more than do other siblings.

5. Some astronomers contend that in the ancient times, the Big Horn
Medicine Wheel, an arrangement of stones in Wyoming, must have serve
as sighting points for observations of the sun.

6. Because doctors are treating more people for skin cancer, it is widely
believed that changes in the protective layers of the earth’ s atmosphere
must be produce harmful effects now.

7. Every chemical engineer working in chemical plant industries know to

use all of equipment and control them based on the readings given by the
instruments.

8. Many babies will, in the normal growth, to be able to stand on their own
when they are one year old.

9. The passengers of the cruise ship to London in 1998 were lucky because
the mechanics had checked all the engines before they broken down as a
part of preventive maintenance.

10. The Australian government recommends not to sunbathe in order to get a

tan because it may be harmful to health.

11. Valentino Rossi was, under his father’ s supervision and guidance, used to
ride his minimoto dirt bike when he was 3 years old.

12. After 5 times of unsuccessful interviews, a candidate had not better give
up hope but keep on trying instead.

13. Despite the age of Mahakam Bridge and the load it has to endure in a day-
to-day basis, the Samarinda Government would rather to expand the
width of the bridge than to finish the Mahkota Bridge.

14. The head of chemical engineering department is not at his office at the
moment. He must teach in the classroom or at the pilot plant.

15. The effect of Mt. Merapi eruption reaches the radius of 10km and the
government would rather that the people who live around Merapi not
come back to their houses until the situation comes back to normal.

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Problem 11 Past Custom—Used to and BE Used to

Remember that used to is similar to a modal. Used to with a verb word means
that a custom in the past has not continued.
S used to verb word

He used to live in the country

Avoid using a form of be after the subject. Avoid using the incorrect form use to.
Remember that BE used to with an – ing form means to be accustomed to.
S BE used to -ing form

He was used to living in the country

Avoid using a form of be after used to. Avoid using a verb word instead of an – ing
form. Avoid using the incorrect form use to.

Examples:
Incorrect: I used to was studying at the University of Southern California before I
transferred here.
Correct:
Or

Incorrect: We use to go to the movies quite frequently.

Correct:
Or

Incorrect: She was used to get up early.

Correct:
Or

Incorrect: He was used to drink too much.

Correct:
Or

Incorrect: She used to speaking in public.

Correct:
Or

Problem 12 Advisability—Had Better

Remember that had better is similar to a modal. Although had appears to be a
past, had better expresses advice for the future.
S had better verb word

You had better take Chemistry 600 this semester

13
 S had better not verb word

You had better not take Chemistry 600 this semester

Avoid using an infinitive or a past form of a verb instead of a verb word. Avoid
using don’ t instead of not.

Examples:
Incorrect: You had better to hurry if you don’ t want to miss the bus.
Correct:

Incorrect: We had better made reservations so that we will be sure of getting a

good table.
Correct:

Incorrect: We had better to check the schedule.

Correct:

Incorrect: You had better don’ t quit your job until you find another one.
Correct:

Incorrect: You had better don’ t go alone.

Correct:

Problem 13 Preference—Would Rather

Remember that the phrase would rather is similar to a modal. Although would
rather appears to be a past, it expresses preference in present and future time.
S would rather verb word

I would rather drive

S would rather not verb word

I would rather not drive

Avoid using an infinitive or an – ing form instead of a verb word.

Examples:
Incorrect: She told me that she’ d rather not to serve on the committee.
Correct:

Incorrect: If you don’ t mind, I’ d rather not going.

Correct:

Incorrect: He said that he’ d rather went to a small college instead of to a large
university.
Correct:

14
Incorrect: I’ d rather writing this than print it because I don’ t print well.
Correct:

Incorrect: Greg would rather has a Pepsi than a beer.

Correct:

Problem 14 Preference for Another—Would Rather That

Remember that when the preference is for another person or thing, would rather
that introduces a clause. The other person or thing is the subject of the clause.
Although the verb is past tense, the preference is for present or future time.
S would rather that S V (past)

I would rather that you drove

Avoid using a present verb or a verb word instead of a past verb. Avoid using
should and a verb word instead of a past verb.
S would rather that S didn’ t verb word

I would rather that you didn’ t drive

Avoid using don’ t or doesn’ t instead of didn’ t.

Examples:
Incorrect: I’ d rather that you don’ t do that.
Correct:

Incorrect: Diane would rather that her husband doesn’ t working so hard.
Correct:

Incorrect: The dean would rather that students make appointments instead of
dropping by.
Correct:

Incorrect: My roommate would rather that I don’ t keep the light on after ten
o’ clock.
Correct:

Incorrect: We’ d rather that you should come tomorrow.

Correct:

Problem 15 Negative Imperatives

Remember that an inperative is expressed by a verb word.
Please don’ t verb word

Please don’ t tell anyone

Avoid using an infinitive instead of a verb word.

15
 Would you please not verb word

Would you please not tell anyone

Avoid using an infinitive instead of a verb word. Avoid using don’ t after would
you please.

Examples:
Incorrect: Would you please don’ t smoke.
Correct:
Or

Incorrect: Please don’ t to park here.

Correct:
Or

Incorrect: Would you please not to be late.

Correct:
Or

Incorrect: Please don’ t to go yet.

Correct:
Or

Incorrect: Would you please don’ t worry.

Correct:
Or

PROBLEMS WITH CAUSATIVES

Causatives are main verbs that cause people or machines to do things or cause
things to change. They are listed below in order of the most forceful to the least
forceful:

make
get
have
let
help

Problem 16 Causative MAKE

Remember that MAKE can be used as a causative. In a causative, a person does
not perform an action directly. The person causes it to happen by forcing another
person to do it.
S MAKE someone verb word

16
 His mother made him take his medicine

S MAKE something verb word

I made the machine work

Avoid using an infinitive or an – ing form instead of a word after a person or

thing in a causative with MAKE.
Examples:
Incorrect: She made the baby to take a nap
Correct:

Incorrect: Professor Rogers didn’ t make us typed up our lab reports.

Correct:

Incorrect: Are you going to make your daughter to work part time in the store
this summer?
Correct:

Incorrect: I can’ t seem to make this dishwasher running.

Correct:

Incorrect: Patsy makes everyone doing his share around the house.
Correct:

Problem 17 Causative GET

Remember that GET can be used as a causative. In a causative, a person does not
perform an action directly. GET has less force and authority than MAKE.
S GET someone infinite

Let’ s get Ralph to go with us

S GET something participle

Let’ s get our car fixed first

Avoid using a verb word instead of an infinitive after a person in a causative with
GET. Avoid using a verb word instead of a participle after things in a causative
with GET.
Examples:
Incorrect: Do you think that we can get Karen takes us to San Diego?
Correct:

Incorrect: I want to get our house paint before winter.

Correct:

Incorrect: Let’ s get some of our money exchange for dollars.

Correct:

17
Incorrect: Nora got her mother’ s wedding dress to alter so that it fit perfectly.
Correct:

Incorrect: We will have to get someone fixing the phone right away.
Correct:

Problem 18 Causative HAVE

Remember that HAVE can be used as a causative. In a causative, a person does
not perform an action directly. HAVE has even less force and authority than GET.
S HAVE someone verb word
My English oral reports
had us give
teacher

S HAVE something participle

I want to have this book renewed, please

Avoid using an infinitive or an – ing form instead of a verb word after a person in
a causative with HAVE. Avoid using a verb word or an infinitive instead of a
participle after a thing in a causative with HAVE.
Examples:
Incorrect: Tom had a tooth fill.
Correct:

Incorrect: Have you had your temperature taking yet?

Correct:

Incorrect: They had their lawyer to change their wills.

Correct:

Incorrect: I like the way you had the beautician done your hair.
Correct:

Incorrect: We are going to have our car fix before we go to Toronto.

Correct:

Problem 19 Causative LET

Remember that LET can be used as a causative. In a causative, a person does not
perform an action directly. With LET, a person gives permission for another
person to do it.
S LET someone verb word

His mother let him go to school

S LET something verb word

I am letting this machine cool

18
Avoid using an infinitive or an – ing form instead of a verb word after a person or
a thing in a causative with LET.
Example:
Incorrect: Professor Baker let us to write a paper instead of taking a final exam.
Correct:

Incorrect: When I was learning to drive, my Dad let me using his car.
Correct:

Incorrect: Would you let us the borrow your notes?

Correct:

Incorrect: Larry is so good-hearted, he lets people took advantage of him.

Correct:

Incorrect: Don’ t let that bothers you.

Correct:

Problem 20 Causative HELP

Remember that HELP can be used as a causative. In a causative, a person does
not perform an action directly. With HELP, a person assists another person to do
it.
verb word
S HELP someone infinitive
He is helping me type my paper
He is helping me to type my paper

Avoid using an – ing form instead of a verb word or an infinitive after a person in
a causative with HELP.
Examples:
Incorrect: Her husband always helps her that she does the laundry.
Correct:

Incorrect: Don’ t you help each other the study for tests?
Correct:

Incorrect: My teacher helped me getting this job.

Correct:

Incorrect: Bob said that he would help our finding the place.
Correct:

Incorrect: This book should help you understand the lecture.

Correct:

Exercises
PART A: Choose the correct answer.

19
1. Harvard ________________ a school for men, but now it is coeducational,
serving as many women as men.
a. was used
b. used to be
c. was used to
d. was used to be
2. To check for acidity, one had better __________________ litmus paper.
a. use
b. using
c. to use
d. useful
3. Rhododendrons would rather ______________ in shady places, and so would
azaleas.
a. to grow
b. growing
c. grown
d. grow
4. A good counsellor would rather that the patient ___________________ his or
her own decisions after being helped to arrived at a general
understanding of the alternatives.
a. makes
b. making
c. will make
d. made
5. Please ________________ photocopies of copyrighted material without the
permission of the publisher.
a. no make
b. don’ t make
c. not make
d. not to make
6. Psychologists believe that incentives ______________ to increase our
productivity.
a. make us want
b. make us to want
c. making us want
d. makes us wanting
7. Lobbyists who represent special interest groups get ______________ that
benefits their groups.
a. Congress to pass the legislation
b. Congress passed the legislation
c. the legislation to pass by Congress
d. the legislation that Congress passing
8. Like humans, zoo animals must have a dentist _____________ their teeth.
a. fill
b. filled
c. filling
d. to be filled
9. The Immigration and Naturalization Service often ______________ their visas
if they fill out appropriate papers.

20
 a. lets students extend
b. lets students for extend
c. letting students to extend
d. let students extending
10. In partnership with John D. Rockefeller, Henry Flager _______________ the
Standard Oil Company.
a. helped forming
b. helped form
c. he help form
d. helping to form

Part B: Choose the incorrect word or phrase and correct it.

1. As television images of the astronauts showed, even for trained
A
professionals who are used to moved about in a lessened gravitational
B C
field, there are still problems.
D
2. In today’ s competitive markets, even small businesses had better
A
to advertise on TV and radio in order to gain a share of the market.
B C D
3. The Amish people, descended from the Germans and Swiss, would rather

using horses than machines for transportation and farm work because
A B C
they believe that a simple life keeps them closer to God.
D
4. It is said that the American flag has five-pointed stars because Betsy told
A B
General Washington she would rather that he changing the six-pointed
C D
ones.

5. Please don’ t parking in those spaces that have signs reserving them for
A B C
the handicapped.
D
6. Too much water makes plants turning brown on the edges of their leaves.
A B C D
7. In order to receive full reimbursement for jewelry that might be stolen,
A B
the owner must get all pieces appraise.
C D

8. Most presidential candidates have their names print on the ballot in the
A

21
 New Hampshire primary election because it is customarily the first one
B C D
in the nation, and winning it can give them a good chance to be nominated

by the parties.

9. The National Basketball Association will not let any athlete to continue
A
playing in the league unless he submits voluntarily to treatment for
B C
drug addiction.
D
10. Doctors agree that the fluid around the spinal cord helps the nourish the
A B C D
brain.

PROBLEMS WITH CONDITIONALS

Conditionals are statements with if or unless. They are opinions about the
conditions (circumstances) that influence results, and opinions about the results.

There are two kinds of conditionals. In most grammar books, they are called real
or factual conditionals and unreal or contrary-to-fact conditionals. Factual
conditionals express absolute, scientific facts, probable results, or possible
results. Contrary-to-fact conditionals express improbable or impossible results.

Problem 21 Factual Conditionals—Absolute, Scientific Results

Remember that absolute conditionals express scientific facts. Will and a verb
word expresses the opinion that the result is absolutely certain.
CONDITION RESULT

If S V (present) , S V (present)

If a catalyst is used , the reaction occurs more rapidly

Or
CONDITION RESULT

If S V (present) , S will verb word

If a catalyst is used , the reaction will occur more rapidly

Avoid using will and a verb word instead of the present verb in the clause
beginning with if. Avoid using the auxiliary verbs have, has, do, and does with
main verbs in the clause of result.

Examples:
Incorrect: If water freezes, it has become a solid.
Correct:

22
 Or

Incorrect: If children be healthy, they learn to walk at about eighteen months old.
Correct:

Incorrect: If orange blossoms are exposed to very cold temperatures, they

withered and died.
Correct:

Incorrect: If the trajectory of a satellite will be slightly off at launch, it will get
worse as the flight progresses.
Correct:

Incorrect: If light strikes a rough surface, it diffused.

Correct:

Problem 22 Factual Conditionals—Probable Results for the Future

Remember that will and a verb word expresses the opinion that the results are
absolutely certain. In order of more to less probable, use the following modals:
will, can, may.
will
can
If S V (present) , S may verb word
If we find her address , we will write her

will
can verb
S may word if S V (present)
We will write her if we find her address

Avoid using the present tense verb instead of a modal and a verb word in the
clause of result.
Examples:
Incorrect: If you put too much water in rice when you cook it, it got sticky.
Correct:

Incorrect: If they have a good sale, I would have stopped by on my way home.
Correct:

Incorrect: We will wait if you wanted to go.

Correct:

23
Incorrect: If you listen to the questions carefully, you answer them easily.
Correct:

Incorrect: If we finished our word a little early today, we’ ll attend the lecture at
the art museum.
Correct:

Problem 23 Factual Conditionals—Possible Results

Remember that although a past verb is used, the opinion is for future time. In
order of most possible to least possible, use the following modals: would, could,
might.
would
could
If S V (past) , S might verb word
If we found her address, we would write her

*(The sentence order can be reversed but without using a coma as in

Problem 22)
Avoid using would and a verb word instead of a past tense verb in an “ if” clause.
Examples:
Incorrect: If Jim’ s family meet Karen, I am sure that they would like her.
Correct:

Incorrect: If you made your bed in the morning, your room looks better when
you got back in the afternoon.
Correct:

Incorrect: If Judy didn’ t drink so much coffee, she wouldn’ t have been so
nervous.
Correct:

Incorrect: If you would go to bed earlier, you wouldn’ t be so sleepy in the

morning.
Correct:

Incorrect: If she would eat fewer sweets, she would lose weight.
Correct:

Problem 24 Factual Conditionals—Probable Changes in Past Results

Remember that the speaker or writer is expressing an opinion about the results
of the past under different conditions or circumstances. In order of the least
probable, use the following modals: would, could, might.

would have
could have
If S had participle , S might have participle

24
 If we had found her address, we would have written her

If we had found her address, we could have written her

If we had found Her address, we might have written her

Avoid using would have and a participle instead of had and a participle in the
clause beginning with if. using have as a participle.
Example
Incorrect: If we had the money, we would have bought a new stereo system.
Correct :

Incorrect: If the neighbors hadn’ t quieted down, I would have have to call the
police
Correct :

Incorrect: If her mother let her, Anne would have stayed longer.
Correct:

Incorrect: If we would have known that she had planned to arrive today, we
could have met her at the bus station.
Correct:

Incorrect: If I had more time, I would have checked my paper again.

Correct:

Problem 25 Contrary-to-Fact Conditionals—Impossible Result Were

Remember that the verb BE is always were in contrary-to-fact conditionals.
If S were

If the party were on Friday, we could go

Avoid changing were to agree with the subject in contrary-to-fact statements.

Examples:
Incorrect: If Barbara was really my friend, she would call me once a while.
Correct:
(Barbara is not my friend.)

Incorrect: If Mr. Harris is single, I could introduce him to my sister.

Correct:
(Mr. Harris is not single.)

Incorrect: If the meat was a little more done, this would be an excellent meal.
Correct:
(The meat is not done)

Incorrect: If my daughter is here, I would be very happy.

Correct:
(My daughter is not here)

25
Incorrect: This apartment be perfect if it were a little larger.
Correct:
(The apartment is not larger)

Problem 26 Contrary-to-Fact Conditionals—Change in Conditions Unless

Remember that there is a subject and a verb that determines the change in
conditions after the connector unless.
S V unless S V

Luisa won't return unless she gets a scholarship

Avoid deleting unless from the sentence; avoid deleting either the subject or the
verb from the clause after unless.
Examples:
Incorrect: I can’ t go I don’ t get my work finished.
Correct:

Incorrect: They are going to get a divorce unless he stopping drugs.

Correct:

Incorrect: you won’ t get well unless you are taking your medicine.
Correct:

Incorrect: Dean never calls his father unless needs money.

Correct:

Incorrect: We can’ t pay the rent unless the scholarship check.

Correct:

PROBLEMS WITH SUBJUNCTIVES

Problem 27 Importance—Subjunctive Verbs

Remember that the following verbs are used before that and the verb word
clause to express importance.

ask propose urge

demand recommend
desire request
insist require
prefer suggest

S V that S Verb word

Mr. johnson prefers that she speak with him personally

Avoid using a present or past tense verb instead of a verb word. Avoid using a
modal before the verb word.

26
Note: the verb insist may be used in non-subjunctive patters in the past tense.
Fpr example: He insisted that I was wrong.

Examples:
Incorrect: The doctor suggested that she will not smoke.
Correct:

Incorrect: I propose that the vote is secret ballot.

Correct:

Incorrect: The foreign student advisor recommended that she studied more
English before enrolling at the university.
Correct:

Incorrect: The law requires that everyone has his car checked at least once a
year.
Correct:

Incorrect: She insisted that they would give her a receipt.

Correct:

Problem 28 Importance—nouns derived from Subjunctive Verbs

Remember that the following nouns are used in this pattern:
demand recommendation
insistence request
preference requirement
proposal suggestion

noun that S verb word

The recommendation that we be evaluated was approved

Avoid using a present or past tense verb instead of a verb word. Avoid using a
modal before the verb word.
Examples:
Incorrect: He complied with the requirement that all graduate students in
education should write a thesis.
Correct:

Incorrect: The committee refused the request that the prerequisite shall be
waived.
Correct:

Incorrect: She ignored the suggestion that she gets more exercise.
Correct:

27
Incorrect: The terrorist’ s demand that the airline provides a plane will not be
met by the deadline.
Correct:

Incorrect: He regretted not having followed his advisor’ s recommendation that

he dropping the class.
Correct:

Problem 29 Importance—Impersonal Expressions

Remember that the following adjectives are used in impersonal expressions.

essential important
imperative necessary
It is adjective infinitive

It is important to verify the data

Or
It is adjective that S verb word

It is important that the data be verified

Avoid using a present tense verb instead of a verb word. Avoid using a modal
before the verb word.

Examples:
Incorrect: It is not necessary that you must take an entrance examination to be
admitted to an American university.
Correct:
or

Incorrect: It is imperative that you are on time.

Correct:
or

Incorrect: It is important that I will speak with Mr. Williams immediately.

Correct:
or

Incorrect: It is imperative that your signature appears on your identification

card.
Correct:
or

Incorrect: It is essential that all applications and transcripts are filed no later
than July 1.
Correct:

28
 Or

PROBLEMS WITH INFINITIVES

An infinitive is to + the verb word

Problem 30 Purpose—infinitives
Remember that an infinitive can express purpose. It is a short form of in order to.
S V C infinitive (purpose)

Laura jogs to stay fit

She takes vitamins to feel better

Avoid expressing purpose without the word to in the infinitive. Avoid using for
instead of to.

Examples:
Incorrect: Wear several layers of clothing for keep warm.
Correct:

Incorrect: David has studied hard the succeed.

Correct:

Incorrect: Don’ t move your feet when you swing for play golf well.
Correct:

Incorrect: Virginia always boils the water twice make tea.

Correct:

Incorrect: Wait until June plant those bulbs.

Correct:

Exercises:
Part A: Choose the correct answer.
1. Less moderate members of congress are insisting that changes in the
Social Security System ____________ made.
a. will
b. are
c. being
d. be
2. It is the recommendation of many psychologists __________ to associate
words and remember names.
a. that a learner uses mental images
b. a learner to use mental images
c. mental images are used
d. that a learner use mental images
3. It is necessary ____________ the approaches to a bridge, the road design, and
the alignment in such a way as to best accommodate the expected traffic
flow over and under it.
a. plan

29
 b. to plan
c. planning
d. the plan
4. In the Morrill Act, Congress granted federal lands to the states ___________
agricultural and mechanical art colleges.
a. for establish
b. to establish
c. establish
d. establishment
5. If water is heated to 212 degree F. _______________ as steam.
a. it will boil and escape
b. it is boiling and escaping
c. it boil and escape
d. it would boil and escape
6. If services are increased, taxes _____________ .
a. will probably go up
b. probably go up
c. probably up
d. going up probably
7. If American ate fewer foods with sugar and salt, their general health
______________ better.
a. be
b. will be
c. is
d. would be
8. According to some historians, if Napoleon had not invaded Russia, he
____________ the rest of Europe.
a. had conquered
b. would conquer
c. would have conquered
d. conquered
9. If humans were totally deprived of sleep, they _____________ hallucinations,
anxiety, coma, and eventually, death.
a. would experience
b. experience
c. would have experienced
d. had experienced
10. Football teams don’ t play in the Super Bowl championship ______________
either the National or the American Conference.
a. unless they win
b. but they win
c. unless they will win
d. but to have won

Part B: Choose the incorrect word or phrase and correct it.

1. Many architects prefer that a dome is used to roof buildings that need
A B
to conserve floor space.

30
 C D
2. Despite their insistence that he will appear when there is an important
A B C
event, the president schedules press conferences with the news media at
D
his discretion.

3. It is essential that vitamins are supplied either by foods or

A B
by supplementary tablets for normal growth to occur.
C D
4. Papyrus was used for to make not only paper but also sails, baskets, and
A B C D
clothing.

5. If a live sponge is broken into pieces, each piece would turn into a new
A B
sponge like the original one.
C D
6. If you don’ t register before the last day of regular registration, you
paying
A B C
a late fee.
D
7. If drivers obeyed the speed limit, fewer accidents occur.
A B C D
8. If dinosaurs would have continued roaming the earth, man would have
A B C
evolved quite differently.
D
9. If we were to consider all of the different kinds of motion in discussing the
A
movement of an object, it is very confusing, because even an object at
B C
rest is moving as the earth turns.
D
10. Usually boys cannot become Boy Scouts unless completed the fifth grade.
A B C D

31
Problem 31 Passives—Word Order
Remember that in a passive sentence the actor is unknown or not important. The
subject is not the actor. Passive sentences are also common in certain styles of
scientific writing.

S BE participle

State University is located at the corner of College and Third.

Avoid using a particle without a form of the verb BE.

Examples

Incorrect: My wedding ring made of yellow and white gold.

Correct:
(It is the ring, not the person who made the ring, that is important.)

Incorrect: If your brother invited, he would come.

Correct:

Incorrect: Mr. Wilson known as Willie to his friends.

Correct:

Incorrect: References not used in the examination room.

Correct:

Incorrect: Laura born in Iowa.

Correct:

Problem 32 Passives—Agent
Remember that in a passive sentence, the actor is unknown or not important.
The subject is not the actor. The actor in a passive sentence is called an agent.
person
by machine

This report was written by Phil.

It was printed by computer.

Avoid using for or form instead of by.

Examples
Incorrect: The decisions on cases like this are made from Dean White
Correct:

Incorrect: Most of us are sponsored from our parents.

Correct:

Incorrect: The car was inspected for Customs.

Correct:

32
Incorrect: The bill has already been paid Mr. Adams.
Correct:

Incorrect: State University is governed from the Board of Regents.

Correct:

Problem 33 Passives—Infinitives
Remember that a passive infinitive can be used with a present form of the BE
verb to express a future intention, and with the past form of the BE verb to
express an intention that was not realized in the past.

S BE (pres) to be participle future time

The project is to be completed by 2025.

S BE (past) to be participle past time

The project was to be completed by 1995.

Avoid using a participle without to or be to express intention. Avoid using a verb

word instead of a participle with to be.

Examples:
Incorrect: The play was to be cancel, but it was only postponed.
Correct:

Incorrect: The finalists are to named at the next meeting.

Correct:

Incorrect: The results of the exam are be announced tomorrow.

Correct:

Incorrect: We were to be notify if there was a problem.

Correct:

Incorrect: The game is to rescheduled.

Correct:

Problem 34 Necessity for Repair or Improvement—Need

Remember that NEED may express necessity for repair or improvement.
S NEED -ing form

This paragraph needs revising.

Avoid using an infinitive or a participle instead of an – ing form.

S NEED to be participle

This paragraph needs to be revised.

33
Avoid using an – ing form instead of a participle.

Examples:
Incorrect: His car needs to fix.
Correct:
or

Incorrect: The rug needs cleaned before we move in.

Correct:
or

Incorrect: The house needs to paint, but we plan to wait until next summer to do
it.
Correct:
or

Incorrect: Her watch needed repaired.

Correct:
or

Incorrect: The hem of this dress needs mended before I wear it again.
Correct:
or

Problem 35 Belief and Knowlede—Anticipatory It

Remember that an anticipatory it clause expreses belief or knowledge.
Anticipatory means before. Some it clauses that go before main clauses are listed
below:
It is believed
It is hypothesized
It is known
It is said
It is thought
It is true
It is written
Anticipatory it that S V

It is believed that all mammals experience dreams

Avoid using an – ing form, a noun, or an infinitive instead of a subject and verb
after an anticipatory it clause.

Examples:
Incorrect: It is hypothesized that the subjects in the control group not to score as
well.
Correct:

Incorrect: It is generally known that she leaving at the end of the year.
Correct:

34
Incorrect: It is said that a buried treasure near here.
Correct:

Incorrect: It is believed that a horseshoe bringing good luck.

Correct:

Incorrect: It is thought that our ancestors building this city.

Correct:

PROBLEMS WITH “ HAVE+PARTICIPLE”

Have, has, or had + participle express duration of time.

Problem 36 Duration—Have + Participle

Remember HAVE + participle means that the activity is extended over a period of
time. HAVE + participle is especially common with adverbs of duration such as
since and for.
S HAVE participle (duration)

The English language has changed since Shakespeare’ s time

Avoid using the participle instead of HAVE + participle. Avoid using a verb word
or a past form instead of a participle.

Examples:
Incorrect: We have live in Seattle for five years.
Correct:

Incorrect: Have you wrote your mother a letter?

Correct:

Incorrect: Ray given us a lot of help since we arrived.

Correct:

Incorrect: I have took this medication since 2000.

Correct:

Incorrect: We been friends since we were children.

Correct:

Problem 37 Duration—Have + Been + Participle

Remember that HAVE + been + participle means that a recently completed
activity was extended over a period of time. Remember that it is a passive. The
actor is not known or not important.
HAVE been Participle

She has been accepted to State University

Avoid using HAVE + participle instead of HAVE + been + participle in a passive

pattern. Avoid using been +participle.

35
Examples:
Incorrect: The party has planned for two weeks.
Correct:

Incorrect: Your typewriter been fixed, and you can pick it up any time.
Correct:

Incorrect: Wayne has elected to the student government.

Correct:

Incorrect: We been taught how to cook.

Correct:

Incorrect: The class been changed to room 10.

Correct:

Problem 38 Prediction—Will Have + Participle

Remember that will have followed by a participle and a future adverb expresses
a prediction for a future activity or event.
adverb (future) S will have Participle
By the year
researchers will have discovered a cure for cancer
2020,
Avoid using will instead of will have.
Examples:
Incorrect: You will finished your homework by the time the movie starts.
Correct:

Incorrect: Jan will left by five o’ clock.

Correct:

Incorrect: Before school is out, I have returned all of my library books.

Correct:

Incorrect: We have gotten an answer to our letter by the time we have to make a
decision.
Correct:

Incorrect: Before we can tell them about the discount, they will bought the
tickets.
Correct:

Problem 39 Unfulfilled Desires in the Past—Had Hoped

Remember that had hoped expresses a hope in the past did not happen.
had
S that S would verb word
hoped
We had hoped that she would change her mind

36
Avoid using a verb word instead of would and a verb word.
Examples:
Incorrect: He had hoped that he graduate this semester, but he couldn’ t finish
his thesis
Correct:

Incorrect: We had hoped him staying longer.

Correct:

Incorrect: They had hoped that she not find out about it.
Correct:

Incorrect: I had hoped she coming to the party.

Correct:

Incorrect: His father had hoped that he go into business with him.
Correct:

Problem 40 Missing Auxiliary Verb—Active

Remember that some main verbs require auxiliary verbs.
BE -ing

Mom is watering her plants

HAVE participle

Mom has watered her plants

MODAL Verb word

Mom should water her plants

Avoid using – ing forms without BE, participles without HAVE, and verb words
without modals when – ing a participle, or a verb function as a main verb.

Examples:
Incorrect: The party is a surprise, but all of her friends coming.
Correct:

Incorrect: She read it to you later tonight.

Correct:

Incorrect: The sun shining when we left this morning.

Correct:

Incorrect: We gone there before.

Correct:

Incorrect: I can’ t talk with you right now because the doorbell ringing.

37
 Correct:

Part A: Choose the correct answer

1. In the stringed instruments, the tones ____________ by playing a bow across
a set of strings that may be made of wire or gut.
a. they produce
b. producing
c. are produced
d. that are producing

2. The famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright, was greatly ____________ , who
wanted him to study architecture.
a. influenced by his mother
b. from his mother’ s influence
c. his mother influenced him
d. influencing for his mother

3. The TOEFL examination ______________ by the year 2002.

a. completely revised
b. is revised completely
c. is to be revised completely
d. completely is to revise

4. If more than five thousand dollars in monetary instruments is

transported into the United States, a report needs _________________ with the
Customs Office.
a. file
b. filing
c. to file
d. to be filed

5. _______________ Giant Ape Man, our biggest and probably one of our first
human ancestors, was just about the size of a male gorilla.
a. It is believed that
b. That it is
c. That is believed
d. That believing

6. People who have very little technical background have _____________ to

understand computer language.
a. learn
b. learning
c. learned
d. learns

38
 7. By the middle of the twenty-first century, the computer ______________ a
necessity in every home.
a. became
b. becoming
c. has become
d. will have become

8. Although research scientists had hoped that the new drug interferon
______________ to be a cure for cancer, its applications now appear to be
more limited.
a. prove
b. had proven
c. would prove
d. will prove

9. The giraffe survives in part because it __________________ the vegetation in

the high branches of trees where other animas have not grazed.
a. to reach
b. can reach
c. reaching
d. reach

10. Many books __________ , but one of the best is How to Win Friends and
Influence People by Dale Carnagie.
a. have written about success
b. written about success
c. have been written about success
d. about successful

Part B: Choose the incorrect word or phrase and correct it.

1. Work is often measure in units called foot pounds.
A B C D

2. In the ionosphere, gases have been partly ionized for high frequency
A B C
radiation from the sun and other sources.
D

3. From now on, new buildings in level one earthquake zones in the United
A
States are to constructed to withstand a tremor without suffering
B C D
structural damage.

39
4. Because the interstate highway system linking roads across the country
A
was built about forty-five years ago, most of the roads in the system now
B C
need repaired.
D

5. That it is believed that most of the earthquakes in the world occur near
A B C
the youngest mountain ranges—the Himalayas, the Andes, and the Sierra
D
Nevadas.

6. Arlington National Cemetery, a memorial area that includes the mast of

A
the battleship Maine, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the eternal

flame at the grave of John F. Kennedy, is the site where the families of
B
more than 160,000 American veterans have bury their loved ones.
C D

7. It is believed that by 2010 immunotherapy have succeeded in curing a

A B C D
number of serious illnesses.

8. Gettysburg has been preserve as a national historic monument because it

A B
was the site of a major Civil War battle in which many lives were lost.
C D

9. President Wilson had hoped that World War I be the last great war, but
A
only two decades later, the Second World War was erupting.
B C D

10. According to some scientists, the earth losing its outer atmosphere
A B C
because of pollutants.
D

40
REVIEW EXERCISE: PROBLEMS 27-40

1. There are still many examples of Cro-Magnon murals ___________ in the

caves of France and Spain.
a. they are left
b. leaving them
c. left
d. leave

2. _________________ that Lee Harvey Oswald may not have acted alone in the
assassination of John Kennedy.
a. Thinking
b. To think
c. It is thought
d. The thought

3. Phosphates _____________ to most farm land in America.

a. need added
b. need to add
c. need to adding
d. need to be added

4. The states require that every citizen registers before voting in an election.
A B C D

5. The money needed to start and continue operating a business known as

capital.

6. The purpose of hibernation is maintain animals in winter climates where

A B
food supplies are required.
C D

7. It is believed that, by the year 2020, many space stations will been
A B C
constructed between the earth and the moon.
D

8. It is essential the practice a foreign language in order to retain a high level

A B C D
of proficiency.

9. Fewer babies born with defects because of advances in prenatal care

A B C
during this decade.
D

10. Although the sculptor had hoped that he be able to finish the large stone
A B
faces at Mount Rushmore, the work was left for his son to complete.
C D

41
CUMULATIVE REVIEW EXERCISE FOR VERBS

1.

42