English grammar: Modal verbs for advice

What this grammar point covers

Modal verbs for advice are special verbs in English, like 'should' or 'ought to', that we use to give suggestions or recommendations.

When to use it

Use these forms when you want to recommend something or suggest what someone should do in a situation.

Key forms

• 'should' + base verb (e.g., should eat)
• 'ought to' + base verb (e.g., ought to study)
• 'had better' + base verb (e.g., had better leave)

Examples

Tips

• Do not use 'to' after 'should' (say 'should go', not 'should to go').
• 'Ought to' is less common than 'should', but both are correct.
• 'Had better' is stronger and is often used when there is a consequence if you don't follow the advice.

Exceptions and edge cases

• 'Had better' is always used in the form 'had better' and does not change for different subjects.