The simple predicate of a sentence is the verb that is done in the sentence. It can be the action that happens, the state of being, or the linking verb.
Hint:
Ask yourself, "The subject did what?" It can help if you find the subject first.
Carloswrote a letter to his uncle. (Carlos did what? He wrote.)
My neighbor's dogbarked all night. (Dog did what? It barked.)
Hint:
A verb phrase is considered a single idea; therefore, it is still a simple predicate.
Fred Mosbywill be my new tutor.
The police officerhad explained what happened.
Hint:
Not is not a verb. Therefore, it cannot be part of the simple predicate. Be careful when dealing with contractions.
Idon't want spaghetti for dinner again. Ido not want spaghetti for dinner again.
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