Forms of the subjunctive

In the subjunctive mood, present-tense verbs do not change form to indicate the number and person of the subject. Instead, the subjunctive uses the base form of the verb (be, drive, employ) with all subjects.

Example sentence: It is important that you be [not are] prepared for the interview.

Example sentence: We asked that she drive [not drives] more slowly.

Also, in the subjunctive mood, there is only one past-tense form of be: were (never was).

Example sentence: If I were [not was] you, I'd proceed more cautiously.

Exercise: Verb tense and mood 1

Exercise: Verb tense and mood 2

Exercise: Verb tense and mood 3

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Uses of the subjunctive