Correct inappropriate shifts in pronoun number and person

key notes :

Understanding Pronouns:

• A pronoun is a word that takes the place of a noun (e.g., he, she, it, they, etc.).
• Pronouns must agree in number (singular or plural) and person (first, second, or third person) with the noun they replace.

Pronoun Number:

• Singular pronouns refer to one person or thing (e.g., he, she, it).
• Plural pronouns refer to more than one person or thing (e.g., they, we).
• Ensure that if a singular noun is being replaced, the pronoun used is singular, and if a plural noun is being replaced, the pronoun is plural.

Pronoun Person:

• First-person pronouns: refer to the speaker (e.g., I, we).
• Second-person pronouns: refer to the person being spoken to (e.g., you).
• Third-person pronouns: refer to the person or thing being spoken about (e.g., he, she, it, they).
• Avoid switching between pronoun persons within a sentence or paragraph unless necessary for clarity.

Identifying Shifts in Number and Person:

• Inappropriate shifts occur when the pronoun does not match the noun it replaces in number or person.
• Example of an inappropriate shift in number: “If a person wants to succeed, they must work hard.” (correct: “If a person wants to succeed, he or she must work hard”).
• Example of an inappropriate shift in person: “When one wants to succeed, you have to work hard” (correct: “When one wants to succeed, one has to work hard”).

Common Errors:

• Shifting from singular to plural inappropriately (e.g., “When a student studies, they should focus.” Correct: “When a student studies, he or she should focus.”)
• Shifting between first, second, and third person within the same sentence (e.g., “If one wants to succeed, you have to work hard.” Correct: “If one wants to succeed, one has to work hard.”)

Identifying Shifts:

• Read sentences carefully to spot any changes in pronoun number or person that seem awkward or unclear.
• Ensure that all pronouns agree with the subject in number and person throughout the sentence or paragraph.

Correcting Shifts:

• When you find an inappropriate shift, adjust the pronoun to match the number and person of the subject or the noun it replaces.
• Maintain consistency throughout a sentence or passage.

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