Some uses of the future Units 19-23 of grammar book
Present tenses for the future Present continuous is used to explain a diary future – an arrangement with a date: He’s playing tennis on Monday afternoon. Present simple is used to talk about timetables… My train leaves at 11.30. The film begins at 9.00
To be going to To talk about a pre-meditated intention to do something in the future (sometimes present continuous can be used as well): I’m going to have an early night. To talk about something you can see is going to happen: Look at those black clouds. It’s going to rain.
Uses of will Something you decide to do at the moment of speaking: I feel a bit hungry. I think I’ll have something to eat. When you offer to do something: That bag looks heavy. I’ll help you with it. When you promise to do something: I won’t tell anyone your secret, I promise. SHALL I? is used in the question form to make an offer (Shall I close the window?) or make a suggestion (Shall we go out tonight?)
Uses of will Something you decide to do at the moment of speaking: I feel a bit hungry. I think I’ll have something to eat. When you offer to do something: That bag looks heavy. I’ll help you with it. When you promise to do something: I won’t tell anyone your secret, I promise. SHALL I? is used in the question form to make an offer (Shall I close the window?) or make a suggestion (Shall we go out tonight?)
Uses of will Making a prediction based on opinion: I think I’ll pass the exam. I don’t think I’ll pass the exam. Often used with these other words to express prediction and possibility: I’ll probably fail the exam. I expect she’ll be home late. I’m sure you’ll pass the exam. I wonder what will happen next.