​In learning grammar, we are learning that words have different functions in sentences.

So far, we have learned that action verbs may have direct objects. But what about linking verbs?

Linking verbs may have predicate nouns (aka predicate nominatives) or predicate adjectives.

Just as there will never be a subject, verb, or direct object in a prepositional phrase, there will never be a predicate noun or predicate object in a prepositional phrase.

​Follow these steps to see if your sentence has a predicate noun or predicate adjective.

• Find the verb and figure out what type of verb it is.

• If it is an action verb, you may have a direct object.

• If it is a linking verb, you may have a predicate noun or predicate adjective.