As a copy editor with a focus on SEO, I understand the importance of using proper grammar and syntax in order to improve a website’s search engine ranking. One common area where mistakes are made is with either/neither agreement.
Either/neither agreement refers to the use of the correct verb form when using the words “either” or “neither” in a sentence. These words are used to refer to two or more options or choices. It’s important to remember that they are singular pronouns, which means that they must be followed by a singular verb. This is where mistakes are commonly made.
For example, consider the following sentences:
“Either the cat or the dogs are going to the vet.”
“Neither the horses nor the cow need to be fed.”
In both of these sentences, the verb used is incorrect. The correct verb should be the singular form: “is” instead of “are” and “needs” instead of “need”. The sentences should read:
“Either the cat or the dogs is going to the vet.”
“Neither the horses nor the cow needs to be fed.”
Failure to use the correct verb form not only makes the sentence sound awkward, it can also negatively impact the website’s SEO ranking. Search engines such as Google are designed to reward websites that use good grammar and syntax, making it important to get it right.
In addition to either/neither agreement, there are other common errors to avoid when it comes to grammar and syntax. These include subject-verb agreement, proper use of pronouns, and consistent tense usage.
As a professional, it’s my job to ensure that the content I’m editing is not only grammatically correct, but also optimized for search engines. By keeping an eye out for common errors such as either/neither agreement, I can help improve a website’s ranking while also making sure the content is clear and easy to read for the audience.