Modals — Advice

Reference

Common mistakes

1. You should to see a doctor. → You should see a doctor.
   no to after should
2. You don't should eat so much sugar. → You shouldn't eat so much sugar.
   negative: shouldn't, not don't should
3. You had better to go home. → You'd better go home.
   had better + base verb, no to
4. You ought see the film. → You ought to see the film.
   ought always takes to

Modals — Advice — Exercises

Choose the best advice

Circle the correct answer.

1. You look tired. You _____ go to bed early tonight. (should / shouldn't / mustn't)
2. You _____ eat so many sweets — they're bad for your teeth. (shouldn't / should / ought)
3. It's going to rain. You'd _____ take an umbrella. (better / should / ought)
4. You ought _____ apologise to her. (to / — / for)
5. _____ I bring a present to the party? (Should / Ought / Had)
6. If I _____ you, I'd tell the teacher. (were / am / would be)
7. Why don't you _____ your brother for help? (ask / to ask / asking)
8. How about _____ to the beach on Saturday? (going / go / to go)

Complete the advice

Write the missing word or words.

1. You should   (see) a doctor about that cough.
2. We'd better   (not / be) late — the film starts at eight.
3. You   to wear sun cream at the beach.
4. If I were you, I   (buy) the cheaper phone.
5. How about   (take) the train instead?
6. You   stay up so late — you've got a test tomorrow.

Modals — Advice — Answer Key

Choose the best advice

1. should — Good advice → should + base verb.
2. shouldn't — Advice against something → shouldn't.
3. better — Strong advice with a warning: you'd better (had better).
4. to — ought is always followed by to: ought to apologise.
5. Should — Asking for advice → Should I…?
6. were — Advice with the second conditional: If I were you…
7. ask — Why don't you + base verb: ask.
8. going — How about + -ing: going.

Complete the advice

1. see
2. not be
3. ought
4. would buy
5. taking
6. shouldn't