Lesson 2.1 · Talking about the future

Spontaneous decisions: using ‘will’

When you decide to do something at the moment of speaking, English uses ‘will’ – usually shortened to ‘I’ll’. Leaving it out is one of the most common mistakes learners make, even at advanced level.

From How to Use English Verb Tenses in Business by David Cox · 200+ diagrams for professional English

Saying something that you will do immediately

One of the most common mistakes is to miss out ‘will’ in sentences like the ones below. Don’t forget to use ‘I will’ or ‘I’ll’ for things you will do immediately.

‘will’ to say something that you will do immediately

Examples: I’ll send you the information now. I’ll share my screen with you. I’ll message her after this call. I’ll close the window. I’ll bring you a glass of water.

Mixing tenses with ‘I will…’ for spontaneous actions

In real conversations, the action you decide on now often follows from something that has already happened.

I’ve prepared a presentation for you all,

Present perfect to talk about a past event which we still haven’t moved on from

so I will share my screen.

‘will’ to say something that you will do immediately

Spontaneous decisions with ‘I think I will…’

When you make a spontaneous decision about the future – later today, tomorrow, next week – we often use the phrase ‘I think I will…’.

‘will’ to make a spontaneous decision for the future

Examples: I think I will go into work earlier tomorrow. I think I’ll postpone the meeting until Friday. I think I’ll call her later just to clarify some issues. I think I’ll say a few words of thanks at the beginning of the presentation.

Mixing tenses with ‘I think I will…’

The decision is about the future, but the reason for it is happening right now.

I think I’ll cancel tonight’s restaurant booking.

‘will’ to make a spontaneous decision for the future

I am not feeling very well.

Present continuous to talk about a present temporary situation

Teachers: use these diagrams

You are welcome to use these diagrams in your lessons and materials. Please credit Fluency Space with a link to this page.

Diagram: Fluency Space – fluencyspace.com/grammar/verb-tenses/spontaneous-decisions/

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