Each one of the ten chosen contestants … lunch with patron

Analyze the question

This tests subject-verb agreement. You must find the true subject of the sentence and match the verb to it.

Explain the concept

The phrase "Each one of the ten chosen contestants" can mislead you. The words "ten chosen contestants" are plural, but they sit inside the phrase "of the ten chosen contestants", which only describes the subject. The real subject is "Each one", and it is singular.

Rule: each, every, either, neither, and one take singular verbs, even when followed by "of + plural noun."

Step-by-step solution

1. Find the subject: Each one (singular).
2. Ignore the phrase "of the ten chosen contestants".
3. A singular subject needs a singular verb form.
4. Check the options: • A. has had – singular, correct form ✔ • B. have had – plural ✘ • C. are having – plural ✘ • D. have – plural ✘

Completed sentence: "Each one of the ten chosen contestants has had lunch with the patron."

The present perfect also fits the meaning, since it refers to an action that has been completed.

Correct answer: A. has had

Exam tip

When you see each, every, either, neither, or one followed by "of + plural noun," cross out the "of..." phrase and check the verb against the first word. A quick trick is to read it as "Each _ has/is," never "Each _ have/are."