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Modal Verbs – Free Exercise

grammar exercises modals

First, in the exercise on the left, choose the correct modal verb in the present tense, in order to construct a text that makes sense. Then, replace the modal verb in the sentences on the right with the correct alternative form in the past tense.

  • Tom   can need not must tidy his office today because he   cannot need not must not find anything anymore.
  • His boss tells him that he   need not ought to can be tidier.
  • Otherwise he   cannot shall must work in his department anymore. anymore is a signal word for negation
  • When customers want information, he   need not should can be able to help them immediately.
  • He   need not must not can keep them waiting. Don’t forget:| need not = doesn’t have to| must not = isn’t allowed to
  • If he sorts the files now, he   must not cannot need not panic when a customer calls. Don’t forget:| need not = doesn’t have to| must not = isn’t allowed to
  • Instead, he   can may should not help them immediately.
  • Tom   tidy his office last month because he   find anything anymore. must → had to|can → be able to ( could is also possible here)
  • His boss told him that he   be tidier. ought to → be expected to/be supposed to/be to
  • Otherwise he   work in his department in the future. can → be allowed to/could |To note: since this sentence is referring forward to the future from its standpoint in the past, we have to use the conditional (would not be allowed to|could not)
  • When customers wanted information, he   be able to help them immediately. ought to → be expected to/be supposed to/be to
  • He   to keep them waiting. must not → be not allowed to
  • As he had sorted the files that morning, he   panic when a customer called. need not → don’t have to
  • Instead, he   help them immediately. can → be able to ( could is also possible here)

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English Grammar Online Exercises and Downloadable Worksheets

Online exercises.

  • Modal Verbs

Levels of Difficulty : Elementary Intermediate Advanced

  • M016 - Modal Verbs Intermediate
  • M015 - Modal Verbs Intermediate
  • M014 - Modal Verb Phrases Intermediate
  • M013 - MUST, MUSTN'T , HAVE TO , DON'T HAVE TO Elementary
  • M012 - MUST and MUSTN'T Elementary
  • M011 - Modal Verbs - Past Forms Intermediate
  • M010 - Modal Verbs - Past Forms Intermediate
  • M009 - Modal Verbs Elementary
  • M008 - Modal Verbs Intermediate
  • M007 - Evelyn Glennie Intermediate
  • M006 - COULD or COULD HAVE Elementary
  • M005 - MUST, MUSTN'T or NEEDN'T Elementary
  • M004 - MUST or CAN'T Elementary
  • M003 - CAN, CAN'T, COULD, COULDN'T , BE ABLE TO Elementary
  • M002 - Modal Verbs Elementary
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Modal Verbs Exercises

Must vs Have to / Has to Exercises 1 Video

GrammarBank YouTube Video Exercises

Modal Verbs Exercises (With Printable Worksheet)

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| Candace Osmond

| Grammar , Quizzes

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Candace Osmond

Candace Osmond studied Advanced Writing & Editing Essentials at MHC. She’s been an International and USA TODAY Bestselling Author for over a decade. And she’s worked as an Editor for several mid-sized publications. Candace has a keen eye for content editing and a high degree of expertise in Fiction.

Answer these three modal verbs exercises to test your understanding of the topic. Review its definition and uses and the application of different modal verbs in sentences.

What Are Modal Verbs?

Grammarist Article Graphic V3 2022 10 08T212344.220

Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that express advice, hypothetical situations , capability, and requests. We use them alongside main verbs in different tenses to change their meanings.

Would, Could, Should

Use would when talking about impossible or unlikely situations and when making polite offers. For example:

  • I would watch the new movie if I had enough time.
  • Would you like an extra bed in your room?

Use could to suggest future possibilities, when showing past abilities, and making requests. For example:

  • It could be hot later.
  • She could play volleyball when she was young.
  • Could you come with me to the office?

Use should for advice and when expressing something possible. For example:

  • You should comb your hair.
  • I wrote five pages, so I should get a good grade.

Might, Will

Use might to express possibility in the past, present, and future. You can also use it in formal situations when expressing permission. For example:

  • He might have talked to the owner before welcoming more guests.
  • Might I recommend a glass of wine?

Use will to express intention, make predictions, or for habitual behavior. For example:

  • I will finish the scale model later.
  • It will rain tonight.
  • I know what you bake on every occasion. You will bake cookies tonight.

Are you ready to test yourself? These modal exercises with answers will challenge your understanding.

Modal Verbs Exercise #1

Choose True or False for every item.

Modal Verbs Exercise #2

This should, could, and would exercise will challenge your understanding of modals. Fill in the blanks with should, could, or would.

Modal Verbs Exercise #3

Fill in the blanks with might or will.

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Can / could - exercises

May / might

Must / have to

Shall / should

Will / would

Mixed modals - exercises

Worksheets - handouts

Mixed modals - 1

Exercises - modal verbs.

  • Mixed modals - elementary 1
  • Mixed modals - elementary 2
  • Mixed modals - elementary 3
  • Mixed modal verbs - test 1
  • Mixed modal verbs - test 2
  • Mixed modal verbs - test 3
  • Mixed modals - exercise 1
  • Mixed modals - exercise 2
  • Modal verbs 1 - exercises
  • Modal verbs of deduction
  • Modal verbs - short answers
  • Ability: can - could - might...
  • Have to, must, should
  • Permission - obligation
  • Offers and requests - exercises
  • Possibility - modal verbs
  • Ability - modal verbs exercises
  • Advice - modal verbs exercises
  • Can / must / should - tests

A powerful tool to govern even the King

Modals Exercises with Answers

Modal Verbs are can, may, shall, will, must, ought to, used to, need, and dare. Can, may, shall, and will have special past forms could, might, should, and would respectively, but ‘ must ‘ do not.

In this post, we have added important Modals Exercises with Answers.

Modals Exercises with Answers

Modals Exercises with Answers #1

Fill in the blanks with Appropriate Modals:

Daily Grammar Test - Attempt Now

  • He…………………play the piano when he was younger.
  • When……………….we meet again?
  • When……………….the magazine be published?
  • Autumn…………………come after the monsoons.
  • I…………………..walk.
  • You…………………..not read.
  • Peter………………….write.
  • Birds………………………..fly.
  • Lisa……………………….be thirty next Monday.
  • They………………………coming to the party later.
  • ………………………I take the phone?
  • Which painting………………… I buy?
  • He………………………….been hurt.
  • He………………….lost his book.
  • It…………………….rain tomorrow afternoon.
  • I………………………go to market.
  • He………………………..gone home yesterday.

Modals Exercises with Answers #2

  • ………………………you lend me your computer?
  • ………………….you come to my home?
  • You…………………..pay the bill today.
  • ……………………you drop my letter into the letter box?
  • I…………………see you if I can find the time.
  • I……………………..take the bus to the town.
  • You…………………..succeeded if you had tried a little harder.
  • He…………………take rice today.
  • You………………….come in.
  • ……………..you play ludo?
  • I tried as best I…………………
  • The dumb…………….not speak.
  • We……………….not do without him.
  • We……………..not live without water.
  • He……………….finish the competition.
  • He………………. a liar.
  • You…………………..do this.
  • You………………not tell a lie.
  • You…………………a rich man.
  • Who………………….take this responsibility?
  • It……………………..rain tomorrow.

Modals Exercises with Answers #3

  • You…………………………heard the name of Shakespeare.
  • What………………..not be cured must be endured.
  • He………………………….promoted to class 12 by this time.
  • …………………………..you speak Spanish?
  • I……………………..go to bed early tonight.
  • We…………………….not sleep during the daytime.
  • She……………………finish her homework before going to watch the film.
  • We………………..obey our parents.
  • John……………………read twelve hours a day.
  • …………………….you please lend me a dollar?
  • We………………….obey our parents.
  • He……………………apologize for being rude to his parents.
  • You…………………………….. taken his permission before.
  • You…………………….borrow my laptop if you promise to return it in time.
  • He………………….not say so.
  • Peter……………….you to prove that you’ve said so.
  • He………………..not follow you.
  • Who…………………to enter the room?
  • I…………………………go to the gym later, if I have time.
  • You……………………..be very careful when driving in heavy rain.
  • Must have been
  • Should have

Modals Exercises with Answers #4

  • I………………………………to buy some groceries before I go home.
  • Alisha……………………..not come here anymore.
  • You…………………….not have waited so long.
  • Rohit……………………not worry.
  • You………………………….to finish your homework by the end of the week.
  • I…………………..not have bought it.
  • He………………………….play football when he was at college.
  • I………………………live here when I was a girl.
  • Lisa…………………………walk every morning when he was in New York.
  • Peter…………………….to get more sleep to feel rested.
  • In our childhood, we…………………..sing religious hymns in the morning.
  • David……………………wake us every morning.
  • John………………………not worry.
  • She didn’t……………………………..to ask the boss for a salary hike.
  • I…………………….not have bought it.
  • I……………………..dare you to eat a whole pineapple.
  • I……………………do physical exercise when I was in my village.
  • When at school I…………………….do sums every day.
  • When living in the village, we…………………….bathe in the tank.
  • The…………………………..to improve their communication skill.
  • It………………………………….snow tomorrow.
  • I…………………….death,
  • I can……………………….any danger.
  • I shall……………………….him to fight with Johnny.

Modals Exercises with Answers #5

  • Peter………………………………study harder if he wants to pass the Medical exam.
  • The members………………………arrive on time for the meeting.
  • I……………………………..love to go on vacation to Switzerland .
  • She……………………..go to the party if she finishes her English Grammar homework on time.
  • We………………………go to the beach this Sunday.
  • You………………………….call your parents and check on them.
  • It…………………………….rain later, so bring an umbrella with you.
  • ………………………..you speak English Fluently?
  • I…………………………..to get a clean shave before my job interview.
  • …………………………I put a little more sugar in your tea.
  • He……………………………..often sits up very late at night.
  • I…………………………sometimes sit idle for hours,
  • You……………………….heard the name of Salman Khan.
  • What……………………..not…………………cured must be endured.
  • He……………………..promoted to class 8 by this time.
  • Alisha…………………….be late for school because of the heavy traffic.
  • …………………….you come to my office?
  • I………………………….have to work late tonight to finish my homework.
  • ……………………….God help you.
  • He……………………..had left his wallet at the restaurant.

Modals Exercises with Answers #6

  • ………………………..his soul rest in peace.
  • I …………………….go to the shopping mall.
  • Peter …………………….gone home yesterday.
  • Jonny ………………………not lend you money.
  • Alisha didn’t……………………………..to ask the boss for a salary hike.
  • …………………………you take your tea with us today?
  • ……………………..you be happy forever, my son.
  • ………………….thy wish be fulfilled through my life.
  • It………………………………..take a few days for the package to arrive.
  • ……………………..you excuse my fine, I shall be happy.
  • We………………………..obey our parents.
  • He…………………………warned the boy before.
  • Lisa………………………….have forgotten her phone at home.
  • I…………………………..love to go on a vacation to Bali.

You Asked, We Listened – List of All Grammar Topics Updated 😍😍

Preposition

Preposition

Active and Passive Voice

Active and Passive Voice

Nominal Compound

Nominal Compound

Time and Tense

Time and Tense

Subject Verb Agreement

Subject Verb Agreement

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  • B1-B2 grammar

Modals: deductions about the present

Modals: deductions about the present

Do you know how to use modal verbs to say how certain you are about a possibility? Test what you know with interactive exercises and read the explanation to help you.

Look at these examples to see how must , might , may , could and can't can be used.

That must be the main entrance. I can see people queuing to get in. I've lost my keys. They might be at work or they could be in the car. You can't be bored already! You've only been here five minutes. 

Try this exercise to test your grammar.

Modals – deduction (present): Grammar test 1

Read the explanation to learn more.

Grammar explanation

We can use modal verbs for deduction – guessing if something is true using the available information. The modal verb we choose shows how certain we are about the possibility. This page focuses on making deductions about the present or future. 

We use must when we feel sure that something is true or it's the only realistic possibility.

This must be her house. I can see her car in the garage. He must live near here because he always walks to work. Come inside and get warm. You must be freezing out there!

might , may , could

We use might , may or could to say that we think something is possible but we're not sure. 

She's not here yet. She might be stuck in traffic. He's not answering. He could be in class. We regret to inform you that some services may be delayed due to the bad weather.

They all have the same meaning, but may is more formal than might and could .

We use can't when we feel sure that something is not possible.

It can't be far now. We've been driving for hours. She can't know about the complaint. She's promoted him to team leader. It can't be easy for him, looking after three kids on his own.

Note that these verbs, like all modal verbs, are followed by an infinitive without to .

Do this exercise to test your grammar again.

Modals – deduction (present): Grammar test 2

Language level

Hello again LearnEnglish Team, I'd like to ask you something more about "must" and "have to". Are both of them used to give advice as in the following sentences "You must take a rest" and "You simply have to get a new job." ? If yes, what's their difference?

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Hello DoraX,

In general, we use 'should' to give advice and 'must' or 'have to' more to express obligation.

This doesn't mean that it's never appropriate to use 'must' or 'have to' to give advice, but I'd recommend you be very careful about using them. For example, imagine I say 'You have to see the film!' to a close friend of mine. In the context of our friendship and the conversation we're having, and especially when delivered with an appropriate tone of voice, I can be reasonably sure that he will understand that I'm not actually ordering him to see the film, but rather am suggesting it.

But it could be a real mistake to say the same thing to my boss or to a person I don't know well. They could even feel offended if they misunderstood my intentions. For this reason, it's generally better to use 'should' (which is also appropriate with your close friends).

Does that make sense?

All the best, Kirk LearnEnglish team

Absolutely. Thank you, one more time.

Hello LearnEnglish team, As I was looking for information about the modal "must", I came across the fact that isn’t common for people to speak to each other about necessity by using the word must, according to a grammar reference source. Is this really the case? If a mother wants her child to be back at 10, won't she say "You must be back at 10." ? Or about homework, "Don't laze around! You must finish your homework."? Or in a work environment between an employer and an employee, isn't "must" used? In the above situations and in similar ones is it natural to use "must" or "have to" is more commonly used to express obligation in conversation?

I wouldn't go too far with this but I think in everyday speech 'have to' is much more common. 'Must' can sound a little more formal. That said, 'must' is perfectly natural and correct as an alternative.

I think part of the issue is that a lot of non-native speakers of English have a similar word to 'must' in their languages and sometimes see 'must' as an equivalent, so end up overusing it. It's not a huge issue, however, and over time as you listen and read you'll pick up these kinds of tendencies. That's really the way to approach it rather than through rules.

The LearnEnglish Team

Much obliged for the constructive feedback!

Hello, I am puzzled by an example on another page of British Council. and this is the example: Question: 'Mark's son started a new school last month. He doesn't like it at all.' Answer: ' Well, moving to a new school can be really difficult.' Is it correct to use 'can' here to make a deduction? Or is it more appropriate to use 'must' here?

Thank you in advance. Cheers.

Hello julbaluk,

You are right in thinking that we don't use 'can' to make a deduction. In this case, 'can' is used to make a general statement about what is possible .

It is grammatically correct to use 'must' instead of 'can' here, but it changes the meaning of the sentence -- instead of making a general statement about what moving to a new school often is like, it makes a deduction. It can certainly be appropriate to say this.

Hi, team! Is might past tense of may?

Hello svetla_79,

In older styles of English, 'might' is indeed the past form of 'may'. But that doesn't describe very well how the two forms are used nowadays. If you want to talk about past possibility, for example, you could use 'may have' or 'might have'.

I'd suggest you have a look at our 'may' and 'might' page, where the most common uses of both forms are explained in more detail. Please feel free to ask us any further questions there if you like.

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My English Pages | Learn English Grammar Online

Grammar exercise | meaning of modals, do the exercise below on the meaning of modals and click on the button to check your answers..

(Before doing the exercises you may want to read the lessons on modals and present and past modals )

Choose the correct answer about the meaning of the modal forms in the following sentences

  • May I use your mobile phone? Select an option: Asking for advice Asking for permission Making a suggestion
  • May I help you? Select an option: Asking for advice Asking for permission Making an offer
  • You mustn't walk on grass. Select an option: Expressing prohibition Expressing obligation Expressing lack of necessity
  • What do you think I should do? Select an option: Asking for advice Asking for permission Making an offer
  • Can you help me with this exercise? Select an option: Asking for advice Asking for permission Making a request
  • I can speak Arabic. Select an option: Expressing possibility Expressing obligation Expressing ability
  • I think you should see a doctor. Select an option: Expressing probability Giving advice Making a request
  • You must stop when the traffic lights are red. Select an option: Expressing prohibition Expressing obligation Expressing ability
  • You needn't take your umbrella. It isn't raining. Select an option: Expressing prohibition Expressing obligation Expressing lack of necessity
  • You may pass the exam. It is not very difficult. You only have to work harder. Select an option: Expressing prohibition Expressing obligation Expressing possibility

Related pages:

  • Modal verbs
  • Present and past of modals
  • Modals for Obligation
  • Exercise on modals
  • Exercise on modals in the past
  • Exercise on modals: mustn't or needn't
  • Exercise on Modals for Obligation: must, mustn't, don't have/doesn't have to
  • Exercise on the meaning of modals
  • Must and have to
  • Shall and will
  • Is need a modal verb?

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English Modal Verbs

What are modal verbs.

Table of Contents

Examples of Modal Verbs

Using modal verbs, modal verbs showing possibility, modal verbs showing ability, modal verbs showing permission, modal verbs showing obligation, modal verbs showing condition, another way to use modal verbs.

Why Modal Verbs Are Important

modal verbs in English

  • Don't write could of , should of , or would of . Just don't.

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Modals in English Grammar: Examples, Usage, Exercises

grammar exercises modals

Can, May, Shall, Will, Must, Ought to, Used to, need,  and  Dare  are called Modals in English Grammar. Modals in English Grammar: Examples, Usage, Exercises have been discussed in the following.

Can, May, Shall, Will, Must, Ought to, Used to, need,  and  Dare  are called  Modals as do they not have ’s  forms,  ‘ing ‘ forms, ‘ed participles ‘ forms.

Can, May, Shall, Will, Must, Ought to, Used to, need, dare are also called Modal Auxiliary Verbs in English Grammar.

Auxiliaries Verbs in English Grammar are those that help Principal Verbs in the formation of Various Verb – Forms.

Modals in English Grammar

In English Grammar , Modals denote those verbs that do not have ’s  forms,  ‘ing ‘ forms, ‘ed participles ‘ forms. Modals  in English Grammar are used before Principal Verbs and express meanings such as  permission , possibility , certainty, and necessity .

Can, May, Shall, Will, Must, Ought to, Used to, need, dare  are also called  Modal Auxiliary Verbs   in English Grammar. As,

(i)  They do not have  ’s  forms.

(ii)  They do not have  – ing  forms.

(iii)  They do not have  – ed participles  forms.

(iv)   Can, May, Shall, Will, have   special past forms  ( Could, Might, Should, Would )

(v)   Must, Ought to, Used to, need, dare do not have special past forms.

English Grammar Modals vs Defective Verbs

Modals  are also called  Defective Verbs . The term Defective Verbs is used for those verbs which are defective in form.

A defective Verb  cannot be used in all the MOODS and TENSES . They can be used  only in the Simple Present and Simple Past Tense .

People also read:

Usage of Modals in English Grammar with Examples

1. can & can’t, modals in english grammar: can vs may.

Can denotes physical ability or physical possibility ; May rather implies there are no physical or normal obstacles in an action.

(i) He can sing well. ( Ability or Power ) 

(ii) You can do it now. ( permission )

(iii) Accidents can happen in this crowded city. ( Possibility )

(iv) Can you lend me your pen? ( polite request )

(v) I cannot swim. ( Inability )

(vi) You cannot do it now. ( Prohibition )

(vii) You cannot be cruel for that reason. ( Impossibility )

2 . Could & Couldn’t

Could is used as the Past Form of Can.

(i) He Could sing well. ( Ability or Power ) 

(ii) Could you tell me the time? ( Polite Request )

(iii) I could not swim. ( Inability )

3 . May & May not ( Mayn’t )

(i) It may rain today. ( Possibility ) 

(ii) This may be true. ( Possibility )

(iii) You may go now. ( Permission )

(iv) We eat that we may live. ( Purpose )

(v) May God bless you. ( Wish )

(vi) This may not be true. ( Impossibility )

(vii) You may not spill here. ( Light Prohibition )

4 . Might & Might not ( Mightn’t ): Modals in English Grammar

Might is used as the Past Form of May.

The Past Form “ Might ” is sometimes used with a Present or Future meaning to express greater doubt.

(i) The report might be true. ( Possibility ) 

(ii) She read hard so that she might pass the exam. ( Purpose )

(iii) He might have recovered if he had proper nursing. ( unfulfilled condition)

(iv) He might recover . (His recovery chance is very slight.) (Greater doubt)

(v) The report might not be true. ( Impossibility )

(vi) He pretended to be ill so that he might not attend the meeting. ( Negative purpose )

5 . Must / Must not ( Mustn’t ): Modals in English Grammar

(i) You must read hard. ( Necessity )

(ii) You must come earlier tomorrow. ( Command )

(iii) You must not spill here. ( Prohibition . )

(iv) The man must be a liar. ( Certainty of belief  in some fact / an Assumption. )

(v) Man must die. ( Inevitability)

(vi) You must do it. ( Compulsion)

(vii) I must see him punished. ( Determination.)

(viii) You must obey your parents. (Certainty.)

(xi) You must have done it = It is certain that you did it. ( Past Certainty.)

(x) You must obey your parents. (Moral Obligation )

(xi) You must do this work. (Obligation )

(xii) He must be worried about his brother. ( Strong Likelihood )

(xiii) The patient must die by night. ( Strong Inference )

6. Shall & Shall not ( Shan’t )

(i) I shall buy a book. ( Simple Future 1 st Person )     

(ii) You shall not do this work. ( Simple Future Command( 2 nd  Person )

(iii) You must not spill here. ( Simple Future Promise 2 nd  Person ) 

(iv) He shall be punished for this. ( Simple Future Threat ( 2 nd  Person ) 

(v) You shall obey me. ( express Simple Future Threat ( 2 nd  Person)

(vi) You shall obey me. ( Simple Future Determination ( 2 nd  Person)    

7. Should & Should not ( Shouldn’t ): Modals in English Grammar

(i) You should obey your parents. ( Duty )

(ii) We should go to school daily. ( Obligation )

(iv) Should you( If you should) go there, I would punish you. ( condition )

(v) I should go if I were with you. ( Desire )

(vi) A simple child, what should it know of death? ( Necessity )

(vii) I did not know that he should treat me thus. ( Disapproval )

(viii) I should like to help you. ( polite wish )

(xi) I should like it. ( Modesty )

(x) You should obey your parents. ( Advice )

(xi) You should consult a doctor. ( Suggestion )

8. Ought to (usage & meaning)

Ought to is used in the sense –                                                  

(i) Duty or Moral Obligation

(ii) Strong Probability

(i) We ought to help the neighbors.( It is our duty to help the neighbors ) ( Duty )

(ii) you ought to keep your promise . ( Moral Obligation)

(iii) You ought to pass in the First Division . (Strong Probability)

9. Will & Will not ( Won’t )

(i) You will succeed ( Simple Futurity (2 nd  Person & 3 rd Person )

(ii) H e will go there. ( 2 nd  Person & 3 rd Person )

(iii) I will try to do this. ( simple Future Promise ( 1 st   Person )

(iv) I will kill him. ( Simple Future Threat ( 1 st   Person )

(v) I will not go. ( Simple Future Determination ( 1 st   Person)

10. Would & Would not ( Wouldn’t ): Modals in English Grammar

The sentence “ He would read in this college ” – this sentence is wrong as “ would ” is never used for an action done regularly or continuously in the Past.

Modals in English Grammar: Important Note

(i) Subjunctive construction beginning with “Should”, and “Would” be followed by “ Should” , and “Would” instead of “shall”, “will”

(a) Should you pass, he will give you a prize. – Incorrect

(b) Should you pass, he would give you a prize. – Correct

(ii) Afterwords denoting   “Intention”, “Desire”, and Anxiety ” ( but not “ Hope ” or “ Expectation ” ) the auxiliary verb introduced by “ that ” is “ shall ” “ should ” not “ will ” or “ would ” .

(a) I desire that he should win the prize.

(b) I intend that my son shall or should be a doctor.

(c) He is anxious that   I shall or should recover soon.

(i) If you would go there, you would see the new sight. ( Condition or uncertainty )

(ii) I repeatedly told him to go, but he would not. ( Determination )

(iii) While in Kolkata, he would go to Eden Gardens. ( Past occasional or irregular Habit )

(iv) I wish you would not make such a noise. ( express Strong Wish )

(v) I hope you would kindly lend me the book. ( express Soften the expression)

11. Used to

Used to is used in the sense –                                                     

(i) Discontinued or Irregular Past Habitual Action

(i) They used to live here last year.

(ii) He used to see me daily before.

Modals in English Grammar: Notes For Would  and Used to :

 Both “ would ” and “ Used to ” express past habit. But in case of regular and continued action both “ would ” and “ Used to ” can never be used. Only in case of discontinued or irregular Past habit both “would ” and  “ Used to ” can be used. “ Used to ” has no Present Form; therefore, cannot be used for a Present Habit .

(i) He used to bathe in the river.

(ii) While in Kolkata, he would go to Eden Gardens.

12. Need & Need not ( Needn’t )

(i) He need not run so fast.

(ii) Need I go there?

(iii) Need Sheila to see you in the morning?

13. Dare & Dare not ( Needn’t )

(i) They dared not move.

(ii) How dare you come here?

Modals in English Grammar: Practice Exercises

1. Fill in the blanks with appropriate modals.

(a)Students ……… answer all the questions.

(b)I ………… need the book today.

(c)I wish you ………….. write to me more often.

(d)We …… to help the poor.

(e)Every evening Neeraj …….. go for a long walk

(f)He ……… not to sing song for so long.

(g) ………….. you live happily and long!

(h)If you step on a dog, it ………… bite you.

(i)……. you please lend me your homework copy?

(j) Anupama ………… certainly attend the conference.

(k)I ………… get back to my work.

(l)I ……… swim across the river when I was young.

(m)I …………. be twenty-five next birthday.

(n)This ………… be the book you want, I suppose.

(o)I excepted that I ……….. get a first class.

(p)We should obey the laws and children ………… obey their parents.

(q). We …………. to love our neighbours.

(r)How ……… you contradict me?

(s)Do you……… to go now?

(t)You ….. improve you spelling.

2. Fill in the blanks with appropriate modals.

(a) We …….. certainly, have time for lunch. Where ………. we go?

(b)The teacher said we …………………. read this book for our own pleasure as it is optional. But we ……. read it if we don’t want to.

 (c)He had been working for more than 11 hours. He ………… be tired after such hard work. He …. prefer to get some rest.

(d)…… ………… you not reconsider you decision? You regret it if you do not.

(e)I ……….. speak French fluently when I was a child. But after we moved to England, I had very little exposure to the language. Now, I just say two things in French.

(f)He said that it …. be all right for you to enter, but I think you ………… wait until he gets here.

(g)you stand on your head for more than a minute? No, I ………….

(h)If anything ……… go wrong while I am away, you ………. let me know, ………… not you?

(i)You ………. leave small objects lying around. Such objects ……….. be swallowed by children.

(j)……. you speak Italian? No, I …………

3. Fill in the blanks with appropriate modals.

(a) “Please ………… I have another bowl of rice, Mother?” the girl asked. “Yes, you …………. and you ………… have some fish too.”

(b)Where …………..we have our picnic? We ………..have it beside the lake.

(c)If I ……. say so, you …… have at least given it another try. Who knows you ……………? have succeeded.

(d)I……….. not ask for his permission in case he says ‘no’. I wish he were as lenient as he …………be.

(e)The boy ………… be very hardworking, but how he is very lazy. He ………… pull up his socks.

(f)……. you do me a favour? ……………you pass this message to Sameer on your way home.

(g)I……… not stop her from leaving. She ………… go if she wants to.

(h)How ………you say such a thing! You ………. be ashamed of yourself. You never …………. be so bold before.

(i)………… you like a sandwich? No, I ………… have soup.

(j)You ………… study hard. You ………….. not neglect your studies.

4. Complete the following passages with suitable modals.

A. Seeing a crow eating a piece of bread, a fox thought how it (a)……….. trick that fellow. It said, “(b)……….I talk to you sir?” The crow didn’t even look at the fox. The fox again said, “(c)…….. you please pay a little attention to me? What a nice bird you are!  Your voice (d)………. be very sweet. I am sure you (e)………. sing very well.” The crow who (f)……………… not be persuaded till then now looked at the fox. It (g) ……… have felt flattered. The crow said to itself, “I’ll show this fox how well I (h)………. sing.” It opened its beak. The piece of bread fell down and was eaten away quickly by the fox.

B. People who (a) ………  remain on outdoor shootings (b) ……… given a chance to go abroad. But they (c) …….have their passports ready. They (d)………… get a free ticket for one of their family members, if only their passport (e) ……. be arranged. The company would provide them spare dollars. So, the members (f) ……  take more foreign exchange with them. If they do so they will (g) ……… declare them at the checking counter. They (h)……… get into unnecessary trouble this way.

C. I Don’t eat this fruit. It (a)……. be poisonous. This (b)……perhaps, (c) …….prove harmful for your health. This lead to death. Therefore, you (d) .. ………… not eat this fruit. It (e) ……raw. Before eating, its skin (f) ………… not be eaten be removed.

D. The Vidyut Board Office has warned that they (a)….……..cut the electricity connection if I don’t pay the bill by today. So, I (b)………… go to the office to pay the bill.

He (c).………have paid the amount yesterday but the office was closed. I (d)………….. ………finish my work immediately and rush to the office so that I (e)……… the bill before 2 p.m. I (f)…………. be late, perhaps.

5. Complete the following passages with appropriate modals.

(A) Shopkeeper: (a) ……………  I help you?

Customer : Yes, (b) …………. you show me some shirts please?

Shopkeeper : All right, Sir I (c) ……………….. show you several designs with different shades.

Customer : That (d)……… be the shirt Jayant hold me about. (e)………… you tell me its price please?

Shopkeeper : It costs only 599.

Customer : Ok. I (f) ………. take two of them. The blue one and the white one.

B. Naresh : Raghu, I (a) ………… get my watch repaired.  (b) ……..you get it done for me if you are going to market.

Raghu : Naresh ,  I(c) ……….. surely get your work done but . I (d) ………. Not going to market today.

C. Guddu : Mother (a) …………… I go to the market?

Mother :  No, you (b) ……………….

Guddu :  It is urgent, so, l (c)……………… go.

Mother : Ok, but (d) ……….  careful on the road.

D. In the modern day business world table manners have become very important since they (a) ……………. Make or mar business opportunity. Let us begin with eating. Before we begin to eat we (b) ……………. Place the napkin on our lap. In some restaurants or eating places, the waiter (c) ……………  doit for you. Table manners (d) ……………… be followed.

6. Fill in the blanks in the following sentences with the appropriate Modal Auxiliary to convey the sense indicated in the brackets against each :

(a) We ………… send her a post card. (obligation)

(b) Rabi ……….. be worried about his brother. (strong likelihood)

(c) Children, you …………. now start writing (permission)

(d) Girls ………….. tell lies. (prohibition)

(e) You …………… have done this earlier. (advice)

(f) He……… come in now. (permission)

(g) He…………. drive a car. (ability)

(h) It…………. rain today. (possibility)

(i) I …………..keep my promise. (obligation)

(j)You ……. be very attentive to your studies. (advice)

(k) The teacher is absent today. He …………be sick. (possibility)

(l)You ……..take care of your health. (duty)

(m) Man…………..die. (certainty)

(n) If you have a headache, you …………go in the sun. (prohibition)

(o) We ………love our neighbours. (moral obligation)

(p) we …………….. go and see a film ? (suggesting)

(q) …………You please shut the window ! (polite request)

(r) You ………….. pay the debt! (obligation)

(s) ………….. I open the door? (permission)

(t) I say you …………… do it? (threat)

(u) …………..You please keep quiet. (polite request)

(v) You …………… consult a doctor.( suggestion)

(w) She …………… to be there by now. (desirability)

(x) You ………….. go now. (permission)

(y) He…………… be about twenty-five now. (possibility)

(z) She ……………..come tomorrow. (permission).

(aa) I …………….. think he is right. (opinion).

(ab) The lady …………. be mad (certainty).

(ac) The President ……….visit the flooded area soon. (possibility)

(ad) We …………….honour our superiors. (obligation)

(ae) You ……………..not run in the sun. (advice)

(af) Satabdi ……………………sing well. (ability)

(ag) You …………………help your neighbours. (certainty)

(ah) The student ……………go to the playfield at 3 p.m. (permission)

(ai) He ……………..take physical exercise in the morning. (habit)

(aj) He …………………….disturb his friend. (negation)

(ak) Bhim …………….disobey his master. (wanting in boldness)

(al) You …………………..always respect the elders. (advice)

(am) It ………. (is possible that it will) rain.

(an) You………..(are permitted to) go to Patna with your friends.

(ao) He ……………….(is permitted to) go home.

(ap) My father…………….. (is likely to) arrive here to night.

(aq) You ………. (are obliged to) obey the laws of the country.

(ar) She ……………… (is determined to) marry John.

(as) Man …………………… (it is inevitable that man will) die.

(at) She  ……………….. (strongly wishes to) see me.

(au)The boys ………….. (were forbidden to) play in the garden.

Exercise 10

7. Rewrite each of these sentences, using a modal verb:

(a) I give you permission to go now (use may)

(b) He is able to jump over the wall. (use can)

(c) It is your duty to obey your teachers. (use should/ought to)

(d) It is essential for you to reach the office by nine. (use must)

(e) She is not in a position to lend me some money. (use can’t)

(f) It is not necessary for you to help me. (use needn’t)

(g) It is your duty not to support the corrupt. (use must not)

(h) You have no power to purchase me. (use cannot)

(i) It is good for children to take some milk. (use should/ought to)

(j) He was never able to draw well. (use could)

(k) Possibly she isn’t Anil’s sister.

(l) Perhaps we will go to Shimla next month.

(m) My sister was able to read the alphabet when she was 18 months old.

(n) It is necessary that you do not wash the car. (The paint is still wet)

(o) It is not necessary for you to wash the car. (It is clean.)

(p) I am certain that they have left already.

(q) Do you allow me to use your phone?

(r) I was in the habit of going to the beach every day when I was in Chennai.

(s) He will probably pass his driving test easily

(t) Perhaps he forgot about the meeting.

(u)I suggest visiting Qutab Minar.

(v) Nobody has answered the phone; perhaps they have gone out.

(w) I am sure he is over seventy.

(x)It was not necessary for me to meet him but I met him.

(y)It was not necessary for me to meet him (and I didn’t meet him).

Exercise 11

8. Fill in the gaps with the modal auxiliaries listed below:

[can, could, may, might, should, would, must, ought to ]

1. You …………… to feel for those who are in distress.

2. ………….you tell me the way to the post office?

3. …………..you mind moving along?

4. Pupils …………. obey their teachers.

 5. You ……………not leave the room before I come back.

 6. I ……………complete the work before sunset.

7.  ………………….come in, sir ?

8. I …………………like to meet your father.

 9. You …………… be right in the matter.

10. You  ………………..not worry over the trifles.

11. One …………….work hard to succeed in life.

12. There  …………………to be more buses during the rush hours.

13. Coffee …………………..be drunk while it’s hot.

Exercise 12

14. She told me that she …………….. help me.

(15) Sima ………………. be very clever.

(16) Ram ……….. behave well with his friends.

 (17) We ………. to love our motherland.

(18) You………. take medicine in time.

(19) My sister ………. swim very well.

(20) ………… we sit in the garden ?

(21) He ……….. be hungry after a long journey,

(22) You ………. never tell when you will need me.

(23) Your father …………. come next Sunday

(24) I ………… be young, but I’m not stupid.

(25) The doctor said that we …………. not worry.

(26)  ……….. go out, I have not decided yet.

(27) She …………….  have helped me.

(28) The servants ………… to tell them stories.

(29) We ………….. all try to be good citizens.

(30) You ……………  find the task very hard initially.

(31) He says you ……………..  go out if you want to

(32) ……….. I borrow your pencil ?

(33) You ……….. not tell a lie,

(34) …………. I talk to him ? Yes, you……….

(35) This medicine……. cure headache,

(36) You………….call him, “sir”.

(37) You ……….  not disturb him.

(38) You …………. take this book, if it is yours.

(39) ……………. I borrow your bicycle ?

(40)You ………. work out this sum yourself.

(41) She …….. not lift the box because she was old.

(42) Learning a foreign language …………. often be interesting.

(43) ……. you mind waiting a moment?

  

Related posts:

  • English Grammar
  • Parts of Speech
  • Modal Verbs

Modal Verbs – Meaning, Usage & Examples

Learn all about modal verbs and their usage in sentences. Check out the examples and the practice exercise to have a better idea.

Table of Contents

What are modal verbs, examples of modal verbs.

  • How to Use Modal Verbs in Sentences?

Test Your Knowledge of Modal Verbs

Frequently asked questions on modal verbs in english grammar.

grammar exercises modals

Modal verbs are helping verbs that are used along with main verbs to represent the ability, possibility and probability of a subject to do an action and emphasise the necessity of an action.

Let us look at some examples of modal verbs used as auxiliary verbs and their functions.

How to Use Modal Verbs in Sentences

Given below are a few examples of how modal verbs can be used to indicate the possibility or probability of an action taking place.

  • It might rain in the evening.
  • I think they will reach Coimbatore by 8 pm.
  • Can you pick up my brother from school on your way home tomorrow?
  • I could make some time to help you with your assignments.
  • Your friends may come to visit you next week.
  • It would not be possible for you to complete all of it by tomorrow evening.

Here are some examples of modal verbs being used to show the necessity and obligation of the subject to perform a particular set of actions.

  • All students of this institution ought to abide by the rules and instructions provided.
  • All employees should follow the dress code strictly.
  • You must get yourself checked before the situation becomes worse.
  • Your sister will have to apply for a leave request if she wants to take a month’s leave.

Modal verbs can be used to make offers, suggestions and requests. Check out the examples given below for know-how.

  • It would be better if you did it the other way.
  • I could help you if you want.
  • Shall I bring you some water to drink?
  • Could you please pass me the science record?
  • Will you please take care of my son for an hour? I have some grocery shopping to be done.

Fill in the blanks with the appropriate modal verb in the following sentences:

1. ________ you be able to bring your camera when you come?

2. Priya __________ apologise for the confusion that was caused yesterday because of her carelessness.

3. You _______ finish this first and then start with the other one.

4. ________ I make some tea for you?

5. I ______ make sure to keep everything ready by the time they reach the railway station.

6. You _______ see to it that the students are standing according to their roll numbers.

7. ______ I come in?

8. She _______ find it interesting as she likes reading adventure stories.

9. Do you have any idea how much all of this _______ cost?

10. ______ you please help me find my keys?

Ready to find out if you used the right modal verbs? Let us check.

1. Would you be able to bring your camera when you come?

2. Priya should/ought to apologise for the confusion that was caused yesterday because of her carelessness.

3. You could finish this first and then start with the other one.

4. Shall I make some tea for you?

5. I will make sure to keep everything ready by the time they reach the railway station.

6. You must see to it that the students are standing according to their roll numbers.

7. Can/Shall/May I come in?

8. She might find it interesting as she likes reading adventure stories.

9. Do you have any idea how much all of this would cost?

10. Can/Would/Could/Will you please help me find my keys?

What are modal verbs?

What are the examples of modal verbs.

Will, would, can, could, may, might, shall, should, must, ought to are the modal verbs in the English language.

How do you use modal verbs in sentences?

Here are some examples of how you can use modal verbs in sentences.

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  1. Modal Verbs Exercises

    I'm I'm here to help you understand grammar and speak correct, fluent English. Click here to read more about our learning method A list of all the free modal verbs exercises on the website. Includes exercises about modals of ability, obligation, permission and probablity.

  2. Modal Verbs

    First, in the exercise on the left, choose the correct modal verb in the present tense, in order to construct a text that makes sense. Then, replace the modal verb in the sentences on the right with the correct alternative form in the past tense. Tom tidy his office today because he find anything anymore. His boss tells him that he be tidier.

  3. Modal Verbs

    M006 - COULD or COULD HAVE Elementary. M005 - MUST, MUSTN'T or NEEDN'T Elementary. M004 - MUST or CAN'T Elementary. M003 - CAN, CAN'T, COULD, COULDN'T , BE ABLE TO Elementary. M002 - Modal Verbs Elementary. Modal Verbs 001 - One word too many Intermediate. Modal Verbs - Online Exercises in English Grammar.

  4. Modal verbs

    The modal verbs are: can may must shall will could might should would We use modals to show if we believe something is certain, possible or impossible: My keys must be in the car. It might rain tomorrow. That can't be Peter's coat. It's too small. We also use them to do things like talk about ability, ask permission, and make requests and offers:

  5. Grammar Exercise

    Grammar Exercise - Modals Do the exercise on modal verbs and click on the button to check your answers (Before doing the exercises you may want to read the lesson on modal verbs ) Choose the right modal verb There are plenty of tomatoes in the fridge. You Select an option: buy any. This is a hospital. You Select an option: smoke here.

  6. Modals Exercises

    Modals Exercises Verbs such as will, would, shall, should, can, could, may, might, must, need, and ought to are called modal verbs. Most of them are used as helping verbs to should the possibility/probability of something happening. This article has some exercises based on modal verbs. Try them out. 72,031 Modal Exercises with Answers

  7. Modals Practice!

    Free English grammar exercise Welcome to today's English exercise on modals! Are you ready to take your understanding of the English language to the next level? In this lesson, we will be exploring the exciting world of modals.

  8. Modal verbs (practice)

    Grammar. Course: Grammar > Unit 2. Lesson 6: Verb aspect and modal verbs. Perfect progressive aspect. Perfect progressive verb aspect. Managing time with tense and aspect. ... In the sentence below, what is the bold modal verb being used to do? When she was little, Sarah could stand on her head, but she can't anymore. Choose 1 answer:

  9. Modal Verbs Exercises

    1. Modals Exercises 2. Can vs Be Able To With Tenses 3. Can vs Could Exercise 4. Can Can't Exercises 5-6-7 Mustn't vs Don't Have to Exercises 1 / 2 / 3 8. Must vs Have to / Has to Exercises 1 - 9-10 Must / Have to Exercise 2 / 3 11. Must / Mustn't / Needn't / Have to 12-13. Modals With Passive Voice 1 / 2 14. Mustn't vs Needn't vs Can't

  10. Modal Verbs Exercises (With Printable Worksheet)

    | Candace Osmond | Grammar, Quizzes Answer these three modal verbs exercises to test your understanding of the topic. Review its definition and uses and the application of different modal verbs in sentences. What Are Modal Verbs? Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that express advice, hypothetical situations, capability, and requests.

  11. Modal verbs exercises

    Mixed modals - exercise 1 Mixed modals - exercise 2 Modal verbs 1 - exercises Modal verbs of deduction Modal verbs - short answers Ability: can - could - might... Have to, must, should Permission - obligation Offers and requests - exercises Possibility - modal verbs Ability - modal verbs exercises Advice - modal verbs exercises

  12. English Grammar

    Here is a list of modals with examples: Remember Modal verbs are followed by an infinitive without "to", also called the bare infinitive. Examples: You must stop when the traffic lights turn red. You should see the doctor. There are a lot of tomatoes in the fridge. You need not buy any. Modal verbs Present and past of modals Modals for Obligation

  13. Modals Exercise

    Modals Exercise October 4, 2019 - Fill in the blanks with a modal auxiliary verb. 1. …………………….. you mind posting this letter for me? Could Would Should 2. …………………… you lend me your bicycle? Shall Will May 3. You ……………………….. not come to my door again. will shall would 4. You ……………………….. regret this. shall may can 5. What ……………………….. we do now? will

  14. Important Modals Exercises with Answers (100+ Questions)

    Modals Exercises with Answers Modal Verbs are can, may, shall, will, must, ought to, used to, need, and dare. Can, may, shall, and will have special past forms could, might, should, and would respectively, but ' must ' do not. In this post, we have added important Modals Exercises with Answers. Modals Exercises with Answers

  15. Modals: permission and obligation

    Try this exercise to test your grammar. Grammar test 1. Modals - permission and obligation: Grammar test 1. Read the explanation to learn more. Grammar explanation. We often use verbs with modal meanings to talk about permission and obligation. Permission can. We often use can to ask for and give permission. Can I sit here? You can use my car ...

  16. Unit 8

    Students > Solutions > Advanced > Grammar > Unit 8 - Exercise 2 - Modal verbs. Speaking English; Grammar Unit 8 - Exercise 2 - Modal verbs ...

  17. Modals: deductions about the present

    Try this exercise to test your grammar. Grammar test 1. Modals - deduction (present): Grammar test 1. Read the explanation to learn more. Grammar explanation. We can use modal verbs for deduction - guessing if something is true using the available information. The modal verb we choose shows how certain we are about the possibility.

  18. Grammar Exercise

    Exercise on modals. Exercise on modals in the past. Exercise on modals: mustn't or needn't. Exercise on Modals for Obligation: must, mustn't, don't have/doesn't have to. Exercise on the meaning of modals. Must and have to. Shall and will.

  19. Modal Verbs in English

    In English, the main modal verbs are can, could, may, might, shall, should, will, would, and must. Modal verbs show modality, which includes properties such as possibility, ability, and obligation. Grammar Monster (#GM) Free Grammar Lessons and Exercises

  20. Modals in English Grammar: Examples, Usage, Exercises

    (iv) Can, May, Shall, Will, have special past forms ( Could, Might, Should, Would ) (v) Must, Ought to, Used to, need, dare do not have special past forms. English Grammar Modals vs Defective Verbs. Modals are also called Defective Verbs.The term Defective Verbs is used for those verbs which are defective in form. A defective Verb cannot be used in all the MOODS and TENSES.

  21. Modals Exercise

    1. Anyone can do this. 2. I could have married her if I had wanted to. 3. We may go swimming on the weekend. 4. I was so angry I could have slapped him. 5.

  22. Modal Verbs

    Let us look at some examples of modal verbs used as auxiliary verbs and their functions. Modal Verb. Function. Can. Used to denote the ability of the subject to perform an action or to request permission to perform an action. Could. Used to denote the ability of the subject to perform an action or an offer made by the subject to perform an ...