Question

Which verb correctly completes this sentence?

There ________ several pencils in the box.

A. is

B. are

C. has

D. has been

E. was

Answer 1

There WAS several pencils in the box. B

Answer 2

The correct answer is B. are

Step-by-step explanation:

The sentence is written in present tense and that is the reason why 'are' is the best choice. In addition, the plural noun phrase 'several pencils' only calls up for a plural verb form and the only alternative is 'are'.

All the other verb forms are either singular or they are written in past tense or present perfect.