Unlike ordinary verbs, modals never change their form. They do not take -s, -ed, or -ing endings.
10.1 Common Modal Verbs
The most commonly used modal verbs are:
can
could
may
might
will
would
shall
should
must
ought to
10.2 Uses of Modal Verbs
1. Ability (can, could)
These modals express a person's ability or skill.
Examples
She can swim very well.
He could run fast when he was young.
2. Permission (may, can)
These are used to ask for or give permission.
Examples
May I come in?
You can borrow my notebook.
3. Possibility (may, might, could)
These modals indicate that something is possible.
Examples
It may rain this evening.
She might arrive late.
This could be the correct answer.
4. Obligation and Necessity (must, have to)
These express duty, responsibility or necessity.
Examples
You must follow the school rules.
I have to complete my assignment today.
5. Advice and Suggestion (should, ought to)
These are used to give advice or recommendations.
Examples
You should revise your lessons daily.
We ought to respect our elders.
6. Requests and Polite Expressions (would, could)
These modals help us make polite requests or offers.
Examples
Could you help me with this question?
Would you like a cup of coffee?
7. Future Actions and Intentions (will, shall)
These modals refer to future events or intentions.
Examples
I will call you tomorrow.
We shall overcome every challenge.
10.3 Important Rules for Using Modals
Rule 1: Use the Base Form of the Verb
A modal verb is always followed by the base form of the main verb.
Example
✔ She can dance.
❌ She can dances.
Rule 2: Modals Never Change Their Form
Modal verbs do not take -s, -ed, or -ing endings.
Example
✔ He can swim.
❌ He cans swim.
Rule 3: Do Not Use to After Most Modals
Most modal verbs are followed directly by the base verb.
Exceptions: ought to and have to.
Examples
He must leave now.
We ought to help others.
I have to attend the meeting.
10.4 Common Mistakes
Incorrect
❌ She can dances well.
Correct
✔ She can dance well.
Incorrect
❌ He must to go now.
Correct
✔ He must go now.
Incorrect
❌ You should to study harder.
Correct
✔ You should study harder.
Quick Revision
Ability → can, could
Permission → may, can
Possibility → may, might, could
Obligation → must, have to
Advice → should, ought to
Request → would, could
Future → will, shall
Easy Memory Tip
Modal + Base Verb = Correct Sentence
Always use the base form of the verb after a modal verb.
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Learn modal verbs with simple rules, uses, examples and grammar tips for accurate English and better exam preparation.
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Modal Verbs, Modals, English Grammar, Grammar Notes, Helping Verbs, Easy English, Exam Preparation.
1.PARTS OF SPEECH 2. SENTENCE STRUCTURE 3.TENSES 4.SUBJECT VERB AGREEMENT 5.ARTICLES AND DETERMINERS 6.VOICE-ACTIVE & PASSIVE 7.DIRECT AND INDIRECT SPEECH 8.PUNCTUATION 9.CLAUSES AND PHRASES 10.MODALS