English grammar: Should and shouldn't

What this grammar point covers

‘Should’ and ‘shouldn’t’ are modal verbs in English. We use them to give advice or say what is the right or wrong thing to do.

When to use it

Use ‘should’ to give advice, suggestions, or talk about what is a good idea. Use ‘shouldn’t’ to say something is not a good idea or to give negative advice.

Key forms

• should + base verb (e.g., should go)
• shouldn't + base verb (e.g., shouldn't eat)

Examples

Tips

• Use the base form of the verb after ‘should’ or ‘shouldn’t’ (e.g., should go, shouldn’t eat).
• Don’t add ‘to’ after ‘should’ (say ‘should go’, not ‘should to go’).
• To make a question, put ‘should’ at the start: ‘Should I help you?’