Correct inappropriate shifts in pronoun number and person
Key Notes:
1. Pronoun Number
- Singular Pronouns: Refer to one person or thing (e.g., he, she, it, I, me).
- Plural Pronouns: Refer to more than one (e.g., they, we, them, us).
- ✅ Example:
Incorrect: If a student studies hard, they will pass.
Correct: If a student studies hard, he or she will pass.
(Singular subject needs a singular pronoun)
2. Pronoun Person
- First Person: The speaker (e.g., I, we).
- Second Person: The person spoken to (e.g., you).
- Third Person: The person or thing spoken about (e.g., he, she, they).
- ✅ Example:
Incorrect: When a person drives, you should be careful.
Correct: When a person drives, he or she should be careful.
(Stick to third person if the subject is third person)
🛠️ How to Identify Inappropriate Shifts:
- Check Subject-Pronoun Agreement
- Make sure pronouns match the number (singular/plural) of the subject.
- Stay Consistent with Person
- Don’t switch between I, you, and he/she/they unless the context requires it.
- Read Aloud
- Often, shifts in person/number sound awkward or confusing.
✏️ Common Mistakes and Fixes:
| Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
| A teacher should explain clearly so you understand. | A teacher should explain clearly so students understand. |
| If someone wants to win, they must train daily. | If someone wants to win, he or she must train daily. |
| When you play soccer, a person needs to stay focused. | When you play soccer, you need to stay focused. |
Let’s practice!🖊️
