Grammar basics
Helping verbs
A helping verb (also called an auxiliary verb) works with a main verb. It helps make questions and negatives, shows time, or adds meaning like ability.
Helping verb + main verb
| Helping verb | Job | Example |
|---|---|---|
| be (am, is, are) | actions happening now | I am learning English. |
| have | finished actions | I have finished my work. |
| do | questions and negatives | Do you code? I don't code. |
| will | the future | I will call you. |
| can | ability | I can swim. |
Modal verbs
Can, could, will, would, should, must, may and might are special helping verbs called modal verbs. They have two rules:
- Never add -s: she can, not she cans.
- Use the base verb after them: she can swim, not she can swims.
Thai speakers, add do
In Thai, คุณชอบกาแฟไหม uses ไหม to make a question. In English, you need a helping verb: Do you like coffee?, not You like coffee?
Do
Helps make questions and negatives. Use does with he, she and it.
Do you speak Thai?
Will
Talks about the future.
I will finish this feature tomorrow.
Can
Shows that you are able to do something.
I can read English, but speaking is harder.
Should
Gives advice. It says what is a good idea.
You should drink more water.
Must
Shows that something is very important or a rule.
You must use a strong password.
Might
Shows that something is possible, but not sure.
It might rain this afternoon.