A verb agreement question tests whether a verb matches one thing or more than one. First, sort the forms by number, not tense: a singular verb goes with it, and a plural verb goes with they. When a sentence opens with there, look after the verb for the subject. Then replace the subject with it or they to test the match. A nearby noun may be part of a phrase, so it doesn't always decide the verb’s number.
Hints
- Hint 1
The second sentence begins with there. Look for the subject after the blank.
- Hint 2
Turn the sentence around so it starts with what exists, and replace that subject with it or they. Which number does the verb need?
Step-by-step
Sort, find, and match
Step 1Sort the verb forms
Try each verb form after it and they to sort by number. The forms is, was, and has been fit it, so they’re singular and need a subject that names one thing. In There _____, we still have to find the subject that decides which verb fits.
- Step 2
Find what exists
The word There tells us something exists, but what is it? The answer is many benefits, so the true subject is benefits. Put benefits before the blank in your head, since the subject comes after its verb here. The phrase to composting tells us what those benefits relate to, so composting doesn't decide the verb.
- Step 3
Match the subject’s number
Does many benefits name one thing or more than one? The word benefits names more than one, so replace the subject with they: a plural subject needs a plural verb. The form are fits they, so it completes the sentence. Choice A.