Conventions of Composition Rule 152 Practice

1. Wrong: If I was able to eliminate all Saturday classes, I'm not sure I would.

Better: If I were able to eliminate all Saturday classes, I'm not sure I would.

Also better: If I could eliminate all Saturday classes, I'm not sure I would.

Explanation: The introductory if makes clear that what follows is hypothetical.

2. Wrong: If Robbie was in charge of the world, music would come out of all sidewalk vents.

Better: If Robbie were in charge of the world, music would come out of all sidewalk vents.

Explanation: Starting a sentence with if shows that the idea following is contrary to fact.

3. Wrong: I wouldn't recommend eating a handful of habanero peppers, even if you can.

Better: I wouldn't recommend eating a handful of habanero peppers, even if you could.

Explanation: The sentence shows that the person being addressed may not be able to eat the peppers.

4. Wrong: I wish my family and I have a million dollars.

Better: I wish my family and I had a million dollars.

Explanation: The wish shows that the family does not have a million dollars.

5. Wrong: Harley and Justice insist that Cam thinks this proposal through.

Better: Harley and Justice insist that Cam think this proposal through.

Explanation: What is insisted is a command, so it belongs in the subjunctive.