Each of the Students Is or Are? Which One Is Correct
Quick Answer
The correct form is "each of the students is."
"Each" refers to individuals one at a time, making it always singular-regardless of what follows.
Explanation
"Each" is a distributive pronoun. It takes a group and considers every member individually, one at a time. This individual focus makes it grammatically singular.
Rule: Each (of the + plural noun) + singular verb
Think of it this way:
"Each of the students is ready" = "Student A is ready. Student B is ready. Student C is ready..." (one at a time)
Examples
✔Each of the students is required to submit a report.
✔Each of the candidates has different qualifications.
✔Each of the rooms was inspected carefully.
✔Each of us has a responsibility.
✘Each of the students are required to submit a report.
Each vs All vs Every
| Word | Focus | Verb | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Each | Individual | Singular | Each student is ready. |
| Every | Individual | Singular | Every student is ready. |
| All | Group | Plural | All students are ready. |
Common Mistake
Incorrect: Each of the employees have received a bonus.
Correct: Each of the employees has received a bonus.
Practice
Choose the correct verb:
"Each of the team members _____ (need/needs) to sign the agreement."