Future forms: plans, arrangements and predictions

Choose between will, be going to and the present continuous according to the kind of future meaning.

When do we use it?

Distinguish spontaneous decisions, evidence-based plans and fixed arrangements.

Form

Use will for instant decisions and neutral predictions, going to for intentions or evidence, and the present continuous for arrangements.

• I’ll answer the phone.
• It is going to rain.
• I am meeting Ana at six.

Key contrast

Read the whole context and identify the time, meaning, noun type or sentence structure before choosing.

Common mistakes

• I will meeting her at six. → I am meeting her at six.
• Look at the clouds! It will rain. → It is going to rain.

Remember

Choose between will, be going to and the present continuous according to the kind of future meaning.

Quick check

• Find the grammar clue.
• Check the subject and verb form.
• Confirm that the answer fits both structure and meaning.