Future Simple

We can refer to the future by using will, be going to or by using present tenses. We use the will future when we want to talk generally about future beliefs, opinions, hopes and predictions.

The will future is formed with the infinitive without to. Questions are indicated by inverting the subject and will. Negatives are formed with will not (wont't).

Note that in speech and informal writing will is usually shortened to 'll.

Some time markers can show when we expect something to happen (tomorrow, next month, in a day etc.) or how certain or uncertain we are about our predictions (perhaps, probably, definitely, certainly etc.).

Note that such time markers as probably, definitely, certainly come after will but before won't.

Some speakers use shall to refer to the future in formal situations with I and we. However this use is becoming very rare. Nowadays shall is used for suggestions only.

Guided Practice

• They (not to go) to the bar tomorrow.

• What (you/to do) next week? - I don't know. I (to meet up) probably with some friends.

• I (to call) you later, OK?

• I (not to do) anything without your advice.

• He'll finish his book in a week or two.
• You probably won't listen to me but I'll try to explain it.

• (we/to go)? It's getting late.

Short Story using Future Simple

-Mike, what are your plans for tonight?

-I don't know really. I'll probably play some video games after work.

-And what will you do tomorrow?

-Well, I definitely won't go out with my friends tomorrow.

-And what will you do next week?

-I'll most certainly start learning another language.

-Mike, how do you have an answer for everything?

-It's quite simple. I don't plan anything. Things will happen on their own.

Independent Practice

Find time markers.

1. Perhaps you'll make the right decision. Time will tell.

2. Max will certainly come later tonight.

3. Susan will try to go there next month but it probably won't happen.

Write the correct sentence.

1. Why can't you come over? I (to let) you sleep at my place

2. I (not to do) it unless you prove Jane wrong.

3. We (to try) to make it work. We (to let) you know.

4. (we/to go) to the restaurant tonight? I (to pay) for the meal.

Answer the questions.

1. What will you do tomorrow?

2. Where will you stay during your summer vacation?

3. Will robots take over the planet?