##  [Subject-verb agreement: “Number,” “range” and “total”](/en/quiz/sva-number-range-total-eng)

Collective nouns such as **number**, **range** and **total** can be troublesome in terms of subject-verb agreement. In the sentences below, decide whether the sentence needs a singular or plural verb.

1. The number of survey respondents ![Placeholder for the answer](/sites/default/files/underscore_15_black-wet.gif) dismally low.was

were

2. A range of dresses ![Placeholder for the answer](/sites/default/files/underscore_15_black-wet.gif) been designed for the fashion show.has

have

3. A number of partygoers ![Placeholder for the answer](/sites/default/files/underscore_15_black-wet.gif) dressing up for the occasion.is

are

4. A total of 12 students ![Placeholder for the answer](/sites/default/files/underscore_15_black-wet.gif) chosen to go to Paris.was

were

5. The total of the company's assets ![Placeholder for the answer](/sites/default/files/underscore_15_black-wet.gif) staggering!is

are

6. The range of ideas at the conference ![Placeholder for the answer](/sites/default/files/underscore_15_black-wet.gif) very inspiring.was

were

7. A number of candidates ![Placeholder for the answer](/sites/default/files/underscore_15_black-wet.gif) tied for first.has

have