Printable Should Exercises - 101 PDF Worksheets with Answers
Should/Shouldn't Printable PDF Worksheet Tests with Exercises and Answers
Access a collection of 101 printable PDF worksheets focusing on the English grammar topic of the should.
Download fill-in-the-blank tests with exercises and answer keys for should/shouldn't to print for free.
The activities in the sheets are suitable for kids, adults, ESL learners at the beginner, elementary, and intermediate levels to practice English grammar.
Understanding Should: A Comprehensive Guide to its Usage in English Grammar
Should is a modal verb in the English language that plays a significant role in expressing various meanings and functions. As a modal verb, "should" is used to indicate advice, suggestions, obligation, necessity, future possibilities, past regrets, and hypothetical situations, among others. Its flexibility allows it to be utilized in different forms, including affirmative, negative, and question forms, making it an essential component of effective communication.
Modal Verbs in English Grammar:
Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that express modality, which indicates the attitude, necessity, ability, or possibility associated with the main verb in a sentence. Modal verbs do not change their forms with different subjects, except for "he/she/it" in the third person singular. The principal modal verbs in English are "can," "could," "may," "might," "shall," "should," "will," "would," "must," "ought to," "need," "dare," and "used to."
Should as a Modal Verb:
Among the modal verbs, "should" serves a distinct purpose in expressing a wide range of meanings and functions in various contexts. Let's explore the different uses of "should" in English grammar:
Affirmative Form of Should:
The affirmative form of "should" is commonly used to give advice, make suggestions, express moral obligations, or highlight future possibilities. It implies a sense of recommendation or expectation, making it a polite way to convey ideas or opinions.
Example:
You should take the bus to avoid traffic. (Offering advice to improve the listener's commuting experience)
We should plan a weekend getaway. (Making a suggestion to arrange a relaxing trip)
We should always help those in need. (Emphasizing the moral obligation to assist others)
The weather forecast says it should rain tomorrow. (Highlighting the possibility of rain based on predictions)
Negative Form of Should:
The negative form of "should" is used to indicate the absence of advice, suggestions, or obligation. It implies that certain actions or behaviors are not recommended or necessary.
Example:
You should not skip meals. (Advising against skipping meals for better health)
They should not criticize others. (Suggesting that criticizing others is not acceptable)
He should not cheat in exams. (Stressing the moral obligation not to cheat)
Question Form of Should:
The question form of "should" is used to seek advice, suggestions, or opinions. It encourages the listener to provide input or make decisions.
Example:
Should I bring anything to the party? (Asking for advice on party etiquette)
Should we go for a walk in the park? (Seeking suggestions on leisure activities)
Should he talk to his boss about the issue? (Requesting an opinion on a workplace matter)
Obligation and Necessity:
"Should" can express a sense of obligation or necessity. While not as strong as "must," it still conveys a degree of responsibility or expectation.
Example:
You should finish your assignments before the deadline. (Implying the obligation to complete tasks on time)
We should be more careful while crossing the road. (Emphasizing the necessity of caution for safety)
Polite Requests:
In certain situations, "should" is used to make polite requests, especially when seeking assistance or information.
Example:
Should you have any questions, feel free to ask. (Politely inviting questions or inquiries)
Degree of Certainty:
"Should" can be used to indicate a degree of certainty when making assumptions or drawing conclusions based on available information.
Example:
He should be arriving at the airport by now. (Expressing a reasonable assumption about his arrival time)
Expressing Opinion:
"Should" is employed to express opinions or beliefs about a situation. It allows individuals to share their perspectives without sounding too forceful.
Example:
I think she should consider taking up the job offer. (Conveying a personal opinion about a potential career opportunity)
Advice and Suggestions:
One of the primary functions of "should" is to offer advice or suggestions. It allows speakers to guide others without being overly authoritative.
Example:
You should study regularly to improve your grades. (Providing advice for academic improvement)
She should visit the doctor to get her health checked. (Making a health-related suggestion)
Giving Recommendations:
"Should" is used to give recommendations, particularly in professional or formal settings. It can influence decisions or actions.
Example:
The expert recommended that we should invest in the stock market. (Offering a professional recommendation)
Future Possibility:
"Should" can express future possibilities or likelihood. It helps to speculate about potential outcomes.
Example:
If she practices regularly, she should become a skilled pianist. (Indicating the likelihood of improvement with practice)
Past Regrets:
In some cases, "should" is used to express past regrets or missed opportunities. It reflects on actions that were not taken but could have been beneficial in hindsight.
Example:
I should have studied harder for the exam. (Expressing regret for not putting in enough effort)
Hypothetical Situations and Conditional Sentences:
"Should" is used in hypothetical situations and conditional sentences to express potential outcomes or requirements.
Example:
If he should need any help, we will be there for him. (Presenting a possible future situation)
Should you require further information, please contact our customer support. (Using "should" in a conditional sentence for polite communication)
Reported Speech:
When reporting someone else's advice or suggestions, "should" is used to maintain the meaning of the original statement. It is often used in indirect speech or reported speech.
Example:
He said I should arrive early for the meeting. (Reporting someone else's advice in a conversation)
Moral Obligations:
"Should" can be used to highlight moral obligations and social responsibilities. It emphasizes ethical considerations.
Example:
We should always treat others with kindness and respect. (Stressing the moral duty to treat people well)
Social Etiquette:
In social situations, "should" is used to indicate socially acceptable behavior or norms.
Example:
You should RSVP to the invitation as soon as possible. (Emphasizing the polite practice of confirming attendance)
Parenting Advice:
Parents often use "should" to give guidance and instructions to their children, providing a framework for appropriate behavior.
Example:
You should finish your homework before watching TV. (Parenting advice for setting priorities)
Conflict Resolution and Decision-Making:
"Should" is employed in conflict resolution and decision-making processes to consider different options and arrive at informed choices.
Example:
We should discuss the issue calmly and find a solution. (Using "should" to propose a constructive approach to resolving conflicts)
Problem-Solving and Negotiations:
In problem-solving and negotiation scenarios, "should" can be used to propose solutions or compromises that lead to mutually beneficial agreements.
Example:
We should consider all perspectives to reach a fair agreement. (Using "should" to promote an inclusive negotiation process)
Conclusion:
"Should" is a versatile modal verb in English grammar, allowing speakers and writers to convey a wide range of meanings and functions. From offering advice, making suggestions, and expressing obligation to exploring future possibilities, past regrets, and hypothetical scenarios, "should" is a valuable tool for effective communication in various contexts. By mastering its usage in its affirmative, negative, and question forms, learners can enhance their language skills and confidently navigate social interactions, professional settings, and decision-making processes. Understanding the nuances of "should" enables individuals to engage in meaningful discussions, resolve conflicts, offer sound recommendations, and approach negotiations with tact and diplomacy. Whether seeking advice, giving suggestions, expressing moral obligations, or contemplating future possibilities, "should" empowers individuals to communicate effectively, build rapport, and foster understanding in diverse situations.
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