Question

A sentence is divided into three parts. Choose the incorrect part. If no error is in the sentence , choose the option (D).
(A) The Principal as well as teachers of the college
(B) were present at
(C) the annual sports day
(D) No error

• A. The Principal as well as teachers of the college
• B. were present at
• C. the annual sports day
• D. No error

Hint:

When you see phrases like "as well as", mentally cross out the phrase and everything after it up to the verb:
"The Principal [as well as teachers] was present..."
This helps you identify the true singular subject instantly and avoid the distraction of plural nouns.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Identify the first subject.
Two subjects are joined by as well as: The Principal and teachers. When subjects are joined by as well as, the verb agrees with the first subject only.
Step 2: Apply the rule.
The Principal is singular, so the verb must be singular: was present, not were present. Part B uses were, which is plural and incorrect.
Step 3: State the rule.
A as well as B always takes a verb that agrees with A alone, not B. Part B is the error.
\[ \boxed{\text{were present at}} \]