Learn NDA English Grammar Basics in 10 Minutes: Defence and Competitive Exam FAQs

This is a brief, intensive lesson telling the basics of English grammar. Since it is intended to be taught to the Defence and Competitive Exam, it is supposed to be taught in approximately 10 minutes. The viewers will obtain the basic knowledge about the way the English language functions, which will allow them to practice it and learn more.

How English Grammar Works

Understanding the basic building blocks of English grammar is essential for clear communication and exam success. This section outlines the foundational structure, from alphabet to complete sentences.

The English language starts with 26 letters of the alphabet, forming countless words. These words combine to create sentences. Every complete sentence requires at least one subject and one verb. The subject is always a noun equivalent (a noun or a pronoun).

Understanding Verb Forms

Verbs are the core of any sentence, dictating action or state of being. Knowing their various forms is crucial for correct sentence construction and tense usage.

Every verb possesses five distinct forms, each serving a specific grammatical purpose. The verb 'be' is unique, having 8 possibilities due to its varied conjugations.

• Standard Verb Possibilities (5):

• First form (base form/plural)

• Singular form

• Second form or past form

• Third form or past participle

• -ING form (V4/present participle/gerund)

• Verb 'be' Possibilities (8): is, am, are, was, were, being, been, been

The third form or -ING form with 'be' is used for passive voice (third form) or continuous tense (-ING form).

Eight Universal English Grammar Rules

These eight universal rules provide a robust framework for mastering English grammar. They simplify complex concepts, helping to build grammatically correct sentences for any Defence and Competitive Exam.

1. Subject-Verb Agreement: A singular subject takes a singular verb (e.g., Raman dances). A plural subject takes a plural verb (e.g., birds sing).

2. Usage with Do/Does/Did: Always use the verb's first form with 'did', 'do', or 'does', regardless of the subject.

3. Usage with Have/Has/Had/Having: Always use the verb's third form (past participle) with 'have', 'has', 'had', or 'having'. If no verb follows, it is omitted.

4. Usage with Get/Gets/Got/Gotten/Getting: In most cases, use the verb's third form with 'get', 'gets', 'got', 'gotten', or 'getting'.

5. Usage with 'Be' Forms: With 'be' forms (is, am, are, was, were, being, been, been), the third form is for passive voice, and the -ING form is for continuous tense.

6. Second Form of Verb: This form is used exclusively in the past indefinite tense when paired with a subject (e.g., I went, she came, they decided).

7. Usage with Modals: With all modal verbs (e.g., shall, should, can, could, will, would, must, ought to, dare, need, may, might), always use the verb's first form. If no verb follows, it is omitted.

8. Usage After 'To':

• No verb follows 'to' if it's a preposition (e.g., I went to the church, where 'church' is a noun).

• If a verb follows 'to', it is always in the first form (e.g., she came to see me).

• Limited exceptions exist where an -ING form (gerund) follows 'to', which are covered in detailed classes.

Why Master These Grammar Rules?

Mastering these fundamental grammar rules can significantly enhance your understanding and application of English. They clarify common grammatical confusions, especially crucial for competitive exams.

Understanding these eight universal rules is key to resolving grammatical ambiguities related to verb usage with 'did/do/does', 'have/has/had/having', 'get' forms, 'be' forms, modals, and the structure after 'to'. While this session offers a quick overview, detailed classes at Physics Wallah provide in-depth understanding, practice, and mastery of English grammar basics.