Should for advice is used to offer suggestions and recommendations. Understanding how to use 'should' effectively can help you communicate advice clearly in both spoken and written English.
Examples
Example 1
IncorrectHe should to call his parents more often.
BetterHe should call his parents more often.
'Should' is followed directly by the base verb without 'to'.
Example 2
IncorrectYou should not to worry about the results.
BetterYou should not worry about the results.
'Should' is used with the base verb, even in negative forms.
How It Works
Meaning
The modal verb 'should' is used to give advice or make recommendations. It suggests what is considered the best action or decision in a particular situation. The structure is: subject + should + base verb. At the B2 level, using 'should' effectively helps in giving nuanced advice in both formal and informal contexts.
Use it when
- Offering advice or suggestions to someone.
- Recommending actions in professional or academic contexts.
- Discussing hypothetical situations where advice is needed.
- Writing formal letters or emails where guidance is provided.
See it
Quick rules
- Always use 'should' with the base form of the verb to give advice.
- Do not add 'to' after 'should'.
- Use 'should' for advice, not to express certainty or obligation.
- In questions, invert 'should' with the subject (e.g., Should I...?).
Common Mistakes
Common problem 1
Adding 'to' after 'should'
WeakThey should to arrive by noon.
StrongThey should arrive by noon.
Fix: Use the base verb directly after 'should'.
Common problem 2
Using 'should' instead of 'must' for obligations
WeakEmployees should wear safety gear at all times.
StrongEmployees must wear safety gear at all times.
Fix: Use 'must' for obligations, not 'should'.
Practice Lab
Practice
Practice using 'should' to give advice correctly in various contexts.
Score: 0/3
Focus on using 'should' to offer advice. Pay attention to the verb form following 'should'.
1. Choose the correct sentence
Which sentence uses 'should' for advice correctly?
2. Arrange the sentence
Put this sentence in the correct order.
Tap a chunk to move it down. Tap it again to send it back.
3. Sort the sentences
Mark each sentence as correct or needing a fix.
You should check your email regularly.
You should to check your email regularly.
He should apologize for the mistake.
He should to apologize for the mistake.
Why It Matters
🎯 Why it matters: Using 'should' correctly allows you to give clear advice and recommendations, making your communication more effective and natural. This is essential for both personal and professional interactions.
Get Feedback
Personalized score feedback
Get clear next-step advice.
Choose the support that matches your study goal. You get direct correction, clear scoring language, and a simple next step.
Best when you need precise correction on grammar control, task response quality, and exam-style scoring.
Personalized Coaching
Need faster IELTS improvement? Book a focused 1:1 strategy session.Get free Band 7+ strategies every week
Get free Band 7+ strategies every week