SHOULD / SHOULDN'T (A2 Grammar)

Use SHOULD to give advice (good idea). Use SHOULDN'T to advise against (bad idea).

Quick tip: SHOULD = advice (good idea). SHOULDN'T = bad idea. Same form for all: I/you/he should.

SHOULD + base verb (good idea)

Use should to say something is a good idea. It's advice, not obligation.

• You should study for the test.
• She should see a doctor.
• We should leave now.
• You should try this restaurant!

SHOULDN'T + base verb (bad idea)

Use shouldn't to say something is NOT a good idea.

• You shouldn't eat so much sugar.
• He shouldn't drive so fast.
• We shouldn't be late.
• You shouldn't smoke.

Questions: Should I/we...?

Use should in questions when asking for advice.

• Should I call him?
• Should we go now?
• What should I do?
• Where should we eat?

Common mistakes

• Not "You should to study more" — say "You should study more". No TO after should.
• Not "You don't should smoke" — say "You shouldn't smoke". Negative = shouldn't, not don't should.

Practise it

Giving advice? = SHOULD. Advising against? = SHOULDN'T. Not obligation - just advice!