A2 Elementary Future forms and the first conditional
will — predictions and decisions
Lesson goal. After this lesson you can say what you think will happen, make promises and take on-the-spot decisions with will.
When to use it
- Predictions based on opinion: I think it will rain tomorrow.
- Decisions made while speaking: The phone is ringing — I'll answer it.
- Promises: I promise I won't tell anyone.
- Offers and requests: Will you help me?
Form
| Type | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Affirmative | S + will + base verb | She will come later. |
| Short form | S + 'll | I'll call you. |
| Negative | S + won't + verb | He won't be late. |
| Question | Will + S + verb? | Will you help me? |
Step by step
- Decide whether you are predicting, promising, offering or deciding right now.
- Write will — the same for every subject, never with -s.
- Write the base verb, with no to.
- For the negative use won't.
Words that often go with will
| Words | Example |
|---|---|
| I think · I'm sure · maybe · probably | I think he will come. |
| I promise · I swear | I promise I will help. |
| tomorrow · next week · in 2030 | We will move next year. |
Examples
I think Viet Nam will win the match.
Don't worry, I won't forget your birthday.
It's hot in here. — I 'll open the window.
Will you come to my party?
She will be sixteen next month.
I'm sure you will like this film.
Common mistakes
He will to come tomorrow. → He will come tomorrow.
Never put to after will. Learners add it from want to, going to.
She wills visit us. → She will visit us.
will is a modal and never takes -s in the third person.
I will can help you. → I will be able to help you.
Two modals cannot stand together. Replace can with be able to.
Memory tip
In speech will is almost always reduced to 'll: I'll, she'll, we'll. If you miss the 'll while listening, you will hear it as a present tense.
Summary
- will + base verb, the same for every subject.
- Negative won't; questions put Will first.
- Use it for predictions, instant decisions, promises and offers.
Practise this lesson
Do exercises with an explanation for every question, take mini tests and track your progress on GrammUp.