Modal Verbs — should, have to, could, might

A2 Elementary · Lesson 3
SHOULD / SHOULDN'T

Use should for advice and recommendations.

+You should apply for that job — you're perfect for it.
–You shouldn't lend money to people you don't trust.
💡 Should gives advice — it is not as strong as must. It means "this is a good idea".
HAVE TO / DON'T HAVE TO

Use have to for external obligations and don't have to when something is optional.

+She has to renew her driving licence this year.
–You don't have to wear a tie — it's a casual office.
⚠️ Don't have to = not required (you can choose). Mustn't = forbidden (you cannot do it).
COULD

Use could for past ability or to make polite requests and suggestions.

+Before the accident, she could walk without any pain.
+Could I leave a message for the manager, please?
✏️ Form: subject + could + verb (base form)
MIGHT

Use might when something is possible but not certain.

+I might apply for the position — I haven't decided yet.
+The road might be blocked — there was an accident earlier.
💡 Might = perhaps. The speaker is not sure.

Quick Summary

ModalMeaningExample
shouldadviceYou should see a doctor.
shouldn'tnegative adviceYou shouldn't ignore it.
have toobligationI have to be there at nine.
don't have tonot necessaryYou don't have to rush.
couldpast ability / polite requestCould you wait a moment?
mightpossibilityShe might call later.

Exercise 1 — True or False?

Read each statement. Choose True or False.

Exercise 2 — Multiple Choice

Choose the correct modal verb to complete each sentence.

Exercise 3 — Matching

Match each sentence to the correct meaning.

Exercise 4 — Gap Fill

Choose the correct modal verb from the dropdown.

Exercise 5 — Word Order

Click the words to build the sentence in the correct order.

Exercise 6 — Word Sort

Read each sentence carefully. Click a category box first, then click the sentence to place it there.

💡 Advice

📋 Obligation

🕐 Past Ability / Request

❓ Possibility

Exercise 7 — Complete the Conversation

Choose the correct modal verb to complete the conversation.

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Exercise 1 — True / False–
Exercise 2 — Multiple Choice–
Exercise 3 — Matching–
Exercise 4 — Gap Fill–
Exercise 5 — Word Order–
Exercise 6 — Word Sort–
Exercise 7 — Conversation–