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Grammar Worksheet

Gerunds and Infinitives

B1 verb + -ing and verb + to + base verb
Explanation

Some verbs are followed by -ing: enjoy swimming, avoid talking.

Some verbs are followed by to + base verb: want to go, decide to leave.

Some verbs can use both, but the meaning may change. Learn common patterns first.

Form
PatternCommon verbsExample
verb + -ingenjoy, avoid, finish, mindI enjoy cooking.
verb + to + basewant, need, decide, hopeShe decided to leave.
verb + object + toask, tell, inviteThey asked me to wait.

After prepositions, use -ing: good at speaking, interested in learning.

After would like, use to + base verb: I would like to try.

Examples
  1. I enjoy learning languages.
  2. She decided to study medicine.
  3. We avoided talking about money.
  4. He hopes to find a better job.
  5. They finished cleaning the kitchen.
  6. Would you like to come with us?
  7. I am interested in learning photography.
  8. My teacher told me to practise more.
Common Mistakes
Exercises
1 Choose the form

Write the correct form of the verb in brackets.

I enjoy _____ (cook).  →  cooking

  1. She wants (travel) next year.
  2. We finished (clean) the room.
  3. They decided (stay) at home.
  4. I am good at (draw).
  5. He avoided (answer) the question.
2 Correct the mistake

Each sentence has one mistake. Write the correct sentence.

  1. I enjoy to read in bed.
  2. She hopes getting a new job.
  3. They asked us wait here.
  4. He is interested to learn music.
3 Sort the verbs

Write G for gerund or I for infinitive after each verb.

  1. want
  2. enjoy
  3. avoid
  4. need
  5. finish
4 Complete the sentence

Use your own idea with -ing or to + verb.

  1. I want ...
  2. I enjoy ...
  3. I need ...
  4. I am interested in ...
5 Rewrite

Rewrite the sentence using the word in brackets.

I like books. (enjoy)  →  I enjoy reading books.

  1. I plan a trip. (decided)
  2. I do not talk about politics. (avoid)
  3. Please wait outside. (asked me)
  4. I want a cup of coffee. (would like)
Speaking Activity

Talk about habits, plans, and preferences.

Listen for the correct -ing or to form.