Mandative Subjunctive in Formal Writing

Formal demands and recommendations.

Examples

• It is essential that she be present.

Key rules

• Use base form after demand, insist, require, essential, vital that
• Negative: not + base verb
• No -s and no tense change
• British English may use should

Common mistakes

• The rule requires that he pays → The rule requires that he pay
• It is essential that she is → It is essential that she be