The verb agreement with none depends on whether it's used to mean "not one" or "not any."
None as "Not One"
When none means "not one," it functions as a singular noun and takes a singular verb.
- Example: None of the students is going to the party.
None as "Not Any"
When none means "not any," it functions as a plural noun and takes a plural verb.
- Example: None of the cookies are left.
Contextual Clues
Sometimes, the context can help determine whether none is singular or plural.
- Example: None of the information is helpful. (Here, "information" is singular, so "is" is the correct verb.)
Practical Insight
While both singular and plural verbs are acceptable with none, using the singular verb is generally preferred in modern English.
