SEVASADAN SAKSHAM SCHOOL
Class: X Sub: Grammar
MODALS
What Are Modals?
Modals are helping verbs used with the base form of a verb to express:
Ability: can, could
Possibility: may, might
Permission: can, may
Advice: should, ought to
Necessity/Obligation: must, have to
Probability: will, shall
Points to Remember:
1) Function of Each Modal
Modal Use Example
Can Ability I can swim.
May Permission May I leave early?
Must Obligation You must wear a uniform.
You should eat healthy
Should Advice
food.
2) Understanding what each modal expresses:
Group 1: Ability – can, could
Group 2: Permission – can, may, might
Group 3: Advice – should, ought to
Group 4: Obligation – must, have to
Group 5: Possibility – may, might, could
3. Pay Attention to Tense
Modals don’t change for tense. But some modals have past forms:
“can” → “could”
“may” → “might”
“must” → stays the same (but “had to” is used sometimes)
4. Common Confusions
“Must” vs “Have to” – both express obligation, but “must” is
stronger.
“Can” vs “May” – “can” is informal, “may” is more polite.
“Should” vs “Ought to” – similar meanings, but “ought to” is
slightly more formal.
IMPORTANT: “Should” and “Must” are both modal verbs that express
obligation or advice, but they differ in strength and urgency. Here are
some important tips to help avoid confusion between ‘should’ and
‘must’:
A. Strength of Each Word
Modal Use Strength Example
Advice, You should drink more
Should Mild
suggestion water.
Strong obligation,
Must Strong You must wear a seatbelt.
necessity
Think of ‘must’ as a rule.
Think of ‘should’ as a recommendation.
B. Ask Yourself: Is it a Rule or Just Advice?
1. If something is required or compulsory, use must.
“You must bring your ID to the exam.” (Rule)
2. If something is recommended but not forced, use should.
“You should revise daily for better results.” (Advice)
C. Use Everyday Examples to Practice
Situation Use Must Use Should
You must not use mobile You should complete your
School rule
phones in class. homework daily.
You must take your
Health You should eat more fruits.
medicine on time.
You must wear a helmet You should look both ways
Safety
while riding. before crossing.
Few More examples:
Q: You (must/should) not talk during the exam.
A: Must – It’s a strict rule.
Q: You (must/should) sleep early before your test.
A: Should – It’s good advice, but not forced.
In Writing: Use ‘Should’ for Opinions, ‘Must’ for Rules
We should respect our elders. (Opinion)
4. All students must wear the school uniform. (Rule)
