Modal Verbs: Will, Would, Shall & Should 

Modal verbs are a type of auxiliary verb. This means they are always used with a main verb to add meaning; they cannot stand alone as the main verb in a sentence.  

English has several modal verbs, including can, could, may, might, must, will, would, shall, and should. In this lesson, we’ll focus on four commonly used ones: will, would, shall, and should. 

You’ll learn how they work, when to use them, and how their meanings can change depending on context. 

Will

To show desire, preference, choice or consent: 

I will accept your offer. 

Will you please be quiet? 

To show the future: 

It will be a great party. 

I will probably go out tonight. 

To express capability: 

The ship will take three hundred guests. 

This bottle will hold two litres of wine. 

To express determination or insistence: 

I will pass my driving test. 

I will do as you say. 

Would

To show preference: 

I would rather go to the cinema today. 

I would prefer to stay in this weekend. 

To express a wish/desire: 

I would like to have more free time. 

To offer advice: 

If I were you, I would study economics. 

Shall

To make a suggestion: 

Shall we dance? 

Shall I go now? 

Shall for obligation in very formal situations: 

You shall obey the rules. 

Students shall not enter here. 

There shall be no food and drink on the premises. 

Should

To give an opinion or a suggestion: 

You should stay at home if you are feeling tired. 

He should make more compromises. 

To express a preference or an idea: 

I should walk to work more often. 

We should go swimming on Saturday. 

To ask for an opinion: 

Should we tell him about our idea? 

What should we do now?