Pronoun Shifts 13 A pronoun shift happens when a writer changes pronouns in the middle of a sentence or paragraph. This can confuse the reader. In this example, the writer changes from we (first-person plural) to you (second-person singular). Incorrect: If we want to learn to play hockey, you should sign up for the beginners’ team at the rec center. Correct In this example, there is no agreement between weeds (a plural noun) and it (third-person singular pronoun). Incorrect: The weeds growing in the garden are a nuisance because it takes nutrients away from the vegetable plants. Correct: