• IELTS

Enhancing Language Proficiency: Mastering Modal Verbs for IELTS

1878 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Aug 16,2023 12:01 PM IST

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an English language proficiency test and is one of the most popular exams accepted by most colleges worldwide. Although there is no dedicated section mainly to test grammar, good scores still depend on the candidates’ knowledge of the fundamentals of grammar. Read the blog to understand the significance of understanding modal verbs for the IELTS exam.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) tests the candidates' language abilities, so grammar plays a pivotal role. It is essential that the candidate appearing for the test must have a firm grasp of grammar and also understands the impact of modal verbs for IELTS.

Modal verbs are used to express opinions or attitudes towards something. The verbs work as supportive or auxiliary verbs and do not represent the main action of the sentence. They contribute to conveying politeness. Proficiency in effectively using and comprehending Modal Verbs is essential for success in the IELTS exams. The same modal verb can be used to express different things. To excel in the IELTS exam, it is essential to invest time and effort into mastering modal verbs.

Rules of Modal Verbs

1. Modal verbs modify the main verb in a sentence.

2. Main verbs always appear before modal verbs, e.g., ' you can leave.'

3. The main verb following the modal verb is in the bare-infinitive form.

4. Modal verbs are contradicted by adding "not" between the modal and the main verb.

5. Modal verbs can be used to modify non-modal auxiliary verbs that have an infinitive. For example: "I would have forgotten that."

6. "Could" and "would" are the only modal preterits used as past tenses of their present versions.

Most Common modal verbs for IELTS

• Will

• Would

• May

• Might

• Shall

• Should

• Must

• Can

• Could

The best way to understand the use of modal verbs is by looking at examples of modal verbs:

Modal Verb	Uses	Examples
Will	Future Possibility	I will study hard for exams to improve my scores
Would	Used for unreal situations	If i had more time, I would have travelled the whole world
May	Permission Possibility	May i begin It may rain tommorow, so don't forget to carry an umbrella
Might	Possibility	I might move to another city in the future
Should	Advice	People should fight for their rights
Must	Obligation	We must listen to expert advice
Can	Ability Permission Possibility	I can't work today Can we work from home today? Smoking can cause health-related issues
Could	Polite request	Could you explain that again, Please?

Also read: IELTS Exam Pattern

Semi Modal Verbs

Semi Modal verbs are alternative verbs and phrases that help overcome the limitations associated with modal verbs, such as defectiveness, absence of past tense, and inability to modify other modal verbs. By using semi-modals, we can expand the range of expression in English.

Semi-Modal Verbs	Explanation
To be able to	Allows other tenses for modals can and could when talking about the ability.
Have to/ Have got to	Obligations and necessity from someone else’s point of view
Ought to	Similar in meaning to should. Native speakers use one or the other, to avoid repetition.
Had better	Alternate to must and have to but it usually considered much stronger, a threat. Used to present, past or furture without change
Used to	Overcomes the limitations that would can only be used for actions
Dare	It is often used in a negative sentence. Dare is used as a main verb and a modal. It follows modal rules when used as a modal
Need	Need can be used as a main or modal verb and usually follows main verb rules. It is considered a little old-fashioned and formal as a modal so isn’t commonly used.

Modal Verbs Hedging

A hedge is a word or phrase that we use too often when we say or write. It helps to make statements less direct. It is commonly used in academic writing and formal conversation. It can further be used to indicate different levels of certainty. It involves modal verbs such as:

• It could be that

• One could argue that

• The answer may be that

• Maybe we used

Modal Verbs for IELTS in Reading and Listening sections

The use of modal verbs in grammar for IELTS is essential, especially for the reading and listening components of the exam. Candidates with a better command of modal verbs in these sections are likely to score high. During speaking tests, the examiner might discuss topics beyond personal experiences; hence, the strategic use of modal verbs can be advantageous. Modal verbs can express likelihood or probability in specific situations. Incorporating modal verbs effectively in the candidates’ responses can enhance the sophistication of the statements and grab the examiner’s attention.

Conclusion: Modal verbs hold a pivotal role in effectively conveying ideas of obligation, recommendation, and more, making them a crucial component of language proficiency. Developing a strong command of modal verbs for IELTS will have a positive impact on performance across all sections of the exam. It enables candidates to express their thoughts with sophistication and precision, particularly during the exam. Furthermore, comprehending the nuances of modal verbs for IELTS facilitates communication with heightened accuracy and precision.

It empowers individuals to effectively articulate their ideas, express varying degrees of certainty or possibility, and adeptly respond to questions involving modal verbs. They are instrumental in enhancing performance in the IELTS exam, as they allow for sophisticated expression of ideas and effective communication. By understanding the subtleties of modal verbs, candidates can convey their thoughts with precision, navigate varying degrees of certainty, and confidently tackle questions involving these verbs.

Also read: Tenses for IELTS achieve high score in grammar

FAQ

How to use Modal verbs in IELTS?

Modal verbs never change form and are always followed by an infinitive without ‘to’.

What are the most used modal verbs?

The most used modal verbs are “must,” “have to” and “have got to” show that something is not optional; it is necessary.

What is the most unique feature of modals?

Modal verbs are always used alongside another verb and can never be used alone

What is modal phrase?

Modal phrases are used to express the same things as modal but in a combination of auxiliary verbs

Which modal is used to express duty?

One must use ‘have to’ and ‘must’ to express duty or obligation

What is the modal of advice?

Modals of advice are a type of modal verbs used mainly to give or ask for advice.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

Navitas Group - Birmingham City University International College (BCUIC)

England, UK • 100 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 6000-17000 / year

Wittenberg University

Ohio, USA • 1 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 0-0 / year

Navitas Group - UC International College

Christchurch, New Zealand • 23 Programmes

Tuition Fee : NZD 0-0 / year

SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences - Hamburg Campus

Hamburg, Germany • 14 Programmes

Tuition Fee : EUR 9450-10710 / year

QS - Temple University

Pennsylvania, USA • 22 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 0-0 / year

University of Westminster - Cavendish Campus

England, UK • 41 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 14000-15000 / year

Unitec Institute of Technology - Waitakere Campus

Auckland, New Zealand • 1 Programmes

Tuition Fee : NZD 19950-24000 / year

Yukon University - Whitehorse Campus

Yukon Territory, Canada • 21 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 12000-19500 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

University Visit - SRH Hochschule Berlin , Germany

Study in Germany • University Visit

Hyderabad-Kukatpally • 03:00PM

In-Person Event

University Visit - ICN Business School, France

Study in France • University Visit

kochi2 • 04:00PM

In-Person Event

University Visit -SP Jain School of Global Management

Study in Australia, Dubai, Singapore • University Visit

Bangalore • 03:00PM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

IELTS Online

- Live Classes

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

Education System in Singapore

Singapore, also known as the "Lion City," has one of the most holistic and innovative education systems in the world. The Organization for Economic Co...

Updated on • Dec 12,2024 05:03 PM IST • Singapore

Medical Courses in UK

Medical courses in the UK are recognised globally for their academic challenge, updated facilities, and comprehensive practical experience. UK Univers...

Updated on • Dec 10,2024 05:36 PM IST • study in the UK

MBBS in Germany

Studying an MBBS in Germany offers a pathway to a world-class education in medicine, attracting thousands of aspiring doctors from around the globe ev...

Updated on • Dec 09,2024 05:49 PM IST • Study in Germany

Letter of Motivation for Germany

If you are planning to study abroad, you must know that the SOP is the most essential document for the application process. In Germany, the same SOP i...

Updated on • Dec 07,2024 05:11 PM IST • Germany

Part-Time Jobs in Germany for International Students

Studying abroad is an experience of a lifetime, incorporating distinct incidents and events. Students are advised to work part-time to make this adven...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 04:38 PM IST • Study in Germany

Health Insurance in Germany for International Students

Do you know that Germany has one of the world's oldest national health insurance systems? That's right, and the health insurance system of Germany dat...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 04:05 PM IST • Study in Germany

Scholarships in Germany for International Students

For international students looking to pursue their higher education abroad, Germany is known as one of the most affordable study destinations. Its cre...

Updated on • Dec 06,2024 03:59 PM IST • Study in Germany

Study Permit for Canada

Planning to study in Canada? But in order to heading off to the land of the maple leaf, it's important to understand how to apply for a Canadian study...

Updated on • Dec 05,2024 05:04 PM IST • Study in Canada

Student Life in UK

The United Kingdom is home to some of the most renowned universities that provide learning opportunities to students nationwide. The country is known ...

Updated on • Dec 04,2024 04:46 PM IST • study in the UK

Master of Information Systems (MIS) in USA

In today's fast-paced and digitally-driven world, organizations increasingly depend on information systems to streamline operations, enhance decision-...

Updated on • Dec 02,2024 05:28 PM IST • USA

Bachelor of Nursing Courses in Australia

Are you passionate about helping others and drawn to the dynamic world of healthcare? A Bachelor of Nursing in Australia could be the perfect la...

Updated on • Nov 30,2024 03:16 PM IST • Australia

Study Medicine in Germany

Are you an international student planning to study medicine in Germany? We want to tell you are going in the right direction, as Germany hosts world-c...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 05:34 PM IST • Study in Germany

Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany

Germany is gaining popularity for its top-notch universities of applied science, known as Fachhochschule. These esteemed institutes offer top-quality ...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 05:22 PM IST • Germany

Student Life in Germany

Germany is known for its affordable education and top-class universities in Europe, but what is it like to become a student at a German univ...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 04:18 PM IST • Study in Germany

Complete Undergraduate Admissions Guide to Study in Germany

Ever dreamt of studying in a land steeped in history and innovation? Germany, a powerhouse of education and engineering, beckons you with it...

Updated on • Nov 27,2024 03:54 PM IST • Study in Germany

PTE Score Chart 2025: PTE Exam Scoring System & Calculation

Most international institutions demand proof of strong English skills, making language proficiency tests a necessity to pursue higher education. While...

Updated on • Nov 26,2024 01:55 PM IST • PTE

Masters in Project Management in USA

Students with ISTJ Personality may have a successful future in project management as their sole personality aligns with the needs of an exceptional pr...

Updated on • Nov 26,2024 01:15 PM IST • USA

IELTS Speaking Questions

The IELTS exam is a popular way for people who want to study overseas, but don't speak English as their first language or where it's not spoken often....

Updated on • Nov 25,2024 03:45 PM IST • IELTS

Accounting Courses in USA

The United States has always been a land of opportunities, especially in education. The allure of studying accounting in the US remains strong, thanks...

Updated on • Nov 25,2024 03:33 PM IST • USA

IELTS Writing Task

IELTS Writing Task One of the most crucial aspects to scoring well on an exam is writing. The IELTS assesses both Academic and General Training in ...

Updated on • Nov 21,2024 05:46 PM IST • IELTS

Enhancing Language Proficiency: Mastering Modal Verbs for IELTS

Table of Contents

Rules of Modal Verbs

Most Common modal verbs for IELTS

Semi Modal Verbs

Modal Verbs Hedging

Modal Verbs for IELTS in Reading and Listening sections

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

IELTS Online