In English, it is common to use verbs together in a sentence - for example "I enjoy playing football". In some languages the second verb used must always be used in the infinitive (dictionary form, starts with ‘to’). In English there are three common forms/types for the second verb used:

·       infinitive - to play, to see, to love, to hate, etc.

·       ing - playing, seeing, loving, hating, etc. (the continuous or progressive form)

·       bare infinitive - play, see, love, hate, etc. (don't use 'to', use the present simple verb)

The form of the second verb depends on the first verb. Look at the three examples below and you'll see what form the second verb should take after the verbs enjoy, want and will:

1.    I enjoy playing football.

2.    I want to play football.

3.    I will play football.

Looking at the sentences shows that:

·       ENJOY is followed by ing

·       WANT is followed by infinitive

·       WILL is followed by bare infinitive

Here are some GENERAL RULES:

Verbs followed by ing

-Phrasal verbs

-Suggest, Avoid, Depend on, Object to, Be/Get used to/accustomed to, Deny , Can't help/stand/bear, Finish, Admit, Try AND MORE...

Verbs followed by infinitive

-want, wish, would like, afford, agree, aim, decide, help, mean, offer, prefer, promise, refuse, tend, happen, hope AND MORE...

-If you’re not sure what to use, you should use the infinitive. It is the most common form.

Example: I want to go home. He offered to open the window.

Verbs followed by bare infinitive

-Modals Verbs: Can/Could May/might Shall/Should Will/Would Must Needn't Would Rather Had better

-Let (something/someone) _______, Do something ______. Make something/someone _____. Help someone (to) do

e.g. I might go to bed. You should do more exercise.

Now, can you use the information to complete the sentences? 

I tried ___________ (speak) to my mom about the monster in my closet. But she thought I was ___________(imagine) it! I said “Please believe me! I need you _________ (help) me!

But she shook her head and said “I want you ________ (count) sheep until you go to sleep. Don’t worry we can __________ (clean) out your closet tomorrow.”

I said “Please Mom! I promise _______ (be) quiet all night if you will __________ (check) the closet one more time.”

She checked it, and to her surprise, a monster came __________ (run) out!

It's been a very scary night, I hope ___________ (sleep) before daylight!