Verbs with -ing and to

What are we learning today?

You will choose between the -ing form and to + verb after common verbs.

Explanation

• Use the -ing form after stop, start, finish, enjoy, love and like.
• Use to + verb after want, try, decide, need and ask.
• Use to + verb to say why you do something.
• Use the -ing form after a preposition, for example in or at.
• Be careful: "stop working" means you do not work now. "Stop to work" means you stop so that you can work.

Examples

1. She stopped talking and listened.
2. He wants to be a director.
3. I am good at drawing.

Remember!

• After a preposition, use the -ing form.
• After want, use to + verb.

Check yourself

1. Complete: "They started ___ (sing)."
2. Complete: "I am interested in ___ (read)."