1. The captain, along with his team, (is / are) ready for the game.

Correct Answer: is. Explanation: Phrases like “along with” do not affect the subject-verb agreement. The subject “captain” is singular, so the verb is singular.

2. The data provided by the researchers (seems / seem) inconsistent with the findings.

Correct Answer: seems. Explanation: “Data” is treated as a singular noun in this sentence, so the verb should be singular.

3. Neither the weather nor the road conditions (was / were) ideal for traveling.

Correct Answer: were. Explanation: With “neither…nor,” the verb agrees with the closer subject, “road conditions,” which is plural.

4. Every student and teacher (has / have) a responsibility to maintain a safe environment.

Correct Answer: has. Explanation: “Every” is singular and requires a singular verb.

5. The pair of scissors (is / are) on the desk.

Correct Answer: is. Explanation: “Pair” is a singular noun, so it takes a singular verb.

6. Politics (is / are) an interesting topic for debate.

Correct Answer: is. Explanation: “Politics” is a singular subject here, so it takes a singular verb.

7. The staff (is / are) meeting to discuss the changes in policy.

Correct Answer: is. Explanation: “Staff” is treated as a single unit here, so it takes a singular verb.

8. The variety of food options (makes / make) this restaurant popular.

Correct Answer: makes. Explanation: “Variety” is singular, so the verb should be singular.

9. Ten years (is / are) a long time to be away from home.

Correct Answer: is. Explanation: Periods of time are considered singular, so “ten years” takes a singular verb.

10. Both the CEO and the board members (supports / support) the new initiative.

Correct Answer: support. Explanation: “Both…and” requires a plural verb.