Correct inappropriate shifts in pronoun number and person

Key Notes:

What are pronouns

• Pronouns are words that take the place of nouns.
  👉 Examples: he, she, it, they, you, we, I, me

What is a “shift”

A shift happens when the pronoun changes incorrectly in number (singular/plural) or person (1st, 2nd, 3rd) within a sentence.

❌ Wrong Example:

• If a student studies hard, they will pass the test.
  ✔️ Corrected:
• If a student studies hard, he or she will pass the test.

Pronoun Person

• 1st Person: I, we 🙋
• 2nd Person: you 👉
• 3rd Person: he, she, it, they 👩‍🧑

⚠️ Avoid switching between persons without reason!

❌ Wrong: When one learns grammar, you get better at writing.
✔️ Correct: When one learns grammar, he or she gets better at writing.

Pronoun Number

• Singular: he, she, it, I, me, one 🧍
• Plural: we, they, us, you (plural) 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

⚠️ Don’t shift between singular and plural pronouns carelessly!

❌ Wrong: Everyone should bring their notebook.
✔️ Correct: Everyone should bring his or her notebook.

Tips to Correct Shifts

✨ Keep pronouns consistent in person and number.
✨ Match the pronoun to its antecedent (the noun it replaces).
✨ Read aloud to check if the pronoun sounds consistent.

Practice Sentences

Try spotting and correcting! 👀

1. If a player wants to win, you must practice.
2. When a person is tired, they should rest.
3. We should try to help when someone needs it.

⚡️ Remember: Consistency is key! Keep your pronouns steady in number (singular/plural) and person (I/you/he/they). 🏆✍️