Despite 12 years of English classes in grammar and high schools, it wasn't until I studied Spanish as an adult that the use of the subjunctive mood in English was somewhat demystified. As a college Chemistry major who was required to take only the freshmen class commonly called English-for-idiots, I blissfully believed the subjunctive mood was subject matter for English majors.
As I became aware of the importance of the subjunctive mood in Spanish, I delved deeper (mostly via the Internet) into the use, rules and verb forms in English. And I learned: the subjunctive mood expresses a condition that is doubtful or not factual (contrary to fact) and is frequently found in clauses that begin with 'if.'
Upon reflection, I realized that I used the subjunctive in everyday language, even following the grammar rules to form the subjunctive: the only subjunctive verb change from the normal present tense verbs is the dropping of the 's' or 'es' in the third person singular (he, she, you and it). For example: I recommend he do it; or, I request that he go to the party. All other subjunctive verbs are the same as the present tense verbs. An exception to these rules is the verb 'to be,' which is covered below
Also, certain verbs can trigger the use of the subjunctive if they suggest a non-factual or doubtful condition, such as: wish; demand: insist; ask; order; pray; recommend; request; require; or suggest, etc. (e.g. - If I were you, I would do it. Or, I wish he were able to built it better. Or, I insist that she stay home. Or, I recommend that she take a break).
The following is from the Englishplus Website:
"The subjunctive mood of the verb to be is be in the present tense and were in the past tense, regardless of what the subject is.
Incorrect: If I was you, I would run.
Correct: If I were you, I would run. (The verb follows if and expresses a non-factual condition.)
Incorrect: I wish he was able to type faster.
Correct: I wish he were able to type faster. (The second verb is in a clause following a verb expressing a wish. It also suggests a non-factual or doubtful condition.)
Incorrect: His requirement is that everyone is computer literate.
Correct: His requirement is that everyone be computer literate. (Subordinate clause follows main clause with a demand.)
Incorrect: He recommended that each driver reports his tips.
Correct: He recommended that each driver report his tips."
(End of text from the Englishplus Website)
In addition, indirect commands made to a third party, such as 'I demand he leave this house,' or 'I insist she take out the garbage,' are also subjunctive because the commands are not made directly and remain in doubt because they are expressed to a third party, not directly to the subject of the demand. (Both verbs, demand and insist, are triggers for using the subjunctive).
A direct command, such as 'take out the garbage,' is in the Imperative (Command) mood because it is made directly and excludes a third-party involvement.
How the subjunctive can change meaning: If I were in New York now, I would go to a Broadway show. (Non-factual, I am elsewhere); When I used to travel on the East Coast, if I was in New York, I always went to a Broadway show. (Factual, that's what I did at that time).
Since the use of the subjunctive is not stressed in most English curricula and is hazy to most of us, any expert comments are very welcome. A subjunctive wish for all: Be well. Be happy. So be it.
