Choose the correct: 'The data ___ clear.'

## The reasoning The key principle here is **subject-verb agreement with collective nouns**. In British English (which Nigeria follows for JAMB/WAEC), "data" is the *plural* form of "datum." Since the sentence uses "data" (not "datum"), you need a plural verb. Think of it like this: - One datum **is** recorded - Many data **are** recorded The sentence says "The data ___ clear" — meaning multiple pieces of information. So: **"The data ARE clear."** ## Why the wrong options tempt you **A) is** — This feels natural because Americans often treat "data" as singular (like "information"). But in Nigerian exams following British English, data takes a plural verb. **C) be** — This is the base form. You can't use it directly after "the data" without a helping verb like "will" or "should." **D) been** — This needs "has" or "have" before it: "The data have been clear." ## Quick takeaway **"Data" is plural in British English — always pair it with "are," just like you'd say "The results are clear," not "The results is clear."**