English has no single future tense. “Will” is used for predictions, spontaneous decisions, promises and offers; “going to” is used for plans and for predictions based on evidence.
How to form the Future Simple (will)
| Type | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Affirmative | subject + will + base verb | I will help you. · It will rain. |
| Negative | subject + will not (won't) + base verb | She won't come. |
| Question | Will + subject + base verb? | Will you call me? |
When to use the Future Simple (will)
- A decision made at the moment of speaking: It's cold. I'll close the window.
- A promise or offer: I'll call you tonight. · I'll carry that for you.
- A prediction (opinion): I think it will rain tomorrow.
- Facts about the future: She will be 30 next year.
Signal words
These words often show that the Future Simple is needed: tomorrow, next week, soon, in a year, one day, probably, I think, perhaps.
Examples
- I will see you tomorrow.
- They won't be late.
- Will it be sunny at the weekend?
- I'll have the soup, please.
- Perhaps she will win.
- We will visit you in May.
Common mistakes
- Using will after if/when in time clauses: If it will rain, we stay home → If it rains, we will stay home.
- Using will for plans already made: I will see the dentist on Friday → I'm going to see / I'm seeing the dentist on Friday.
Frequently asked questions
Will or going to?
Use will for sudden decisions, promises and opinions about the future. Use going to for plans you have already made and for predictions based on something you can see now (Look at the clouds – it's going to rain).