Modal Verbs Exercises

Contents

Our modal verbs worksheets are specially designed to make learning modal verbs fun, easy, and interactive. Great for classroom use or self-study, these worksheets will help you understand when and how to use modals in real-life situations.

Modal Verbs Worksheets

Modal verbs are the secret ingredients that add meaning, mood, and possibility to your sentences! Whether you’re talking about ability, permission, advice, or necessity, modal verbs like can, could, must, should, will, and might help English learners express ideas clearly and confidently.

1. Complete the sentences with the following modal verbs.

2. Complete the following sentences by choosing the correct modal verbs inside the box below.

3. Choose the correct modal verb to complete each sentence.

4. Rewrite each sentence using the correct modal verb.

Modal verbs are special helping verbs used with the base form of a main verb to show ability, possibility, permission, necessity, or advice. They help express the speaker’s mood or attitude about what they’re saying.

Modal verbs do not change with the subject and are always followed by the base form of the verb (no “-s,” “-ed,” or “-ing”).

Explore more about modal verbs in English grammar.

Here’s a good set of modal verbs exercises for you, including different types to practice “can, could, must, might, should, would,” etc.:

Modal Verbs Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks

Complete the sentences with a suitable modal verb from the box.

(can, could, must, should, might, would)

You __________ wear a helmet when you ride a bike.
When I was younger, I __________ run very fast.
He __________ come to the party, but he’s not sure yet.
You __________ be polite to your teacher.
I __________ help you with your homework if you like.
We __________ go to the museum tomorrow if we have time.
You __________ not smoke in public places.
She __________ sing beautifully when she was a child.

Answer:

must
could
might
should
can / could / would
might
must
could

Modal Verbs Exercise 2: Make Sentences Using a Modal Verb

Use the modal verb given to create a sentence.

(can) _______________________________________
(should) _______________________________________
(might) _______________________________________
(must) _______________________________________
(could) _______________________________________

Answer: (Answers will vary — example sentences:)

I can ride a bicycle.
You should drink more water.
It might rain this afternoon.
You must wear a seatbelt.
He could play the piano when he was young.

Modal Verbs Exercise 3: Choose the Correct Option

Circle the correct modal verb to complete each sentence.

You (must / might) study hard to pass the exam.
(Can / Would) you please open the window?
It (can / must) be cold outside — it’s snowing!
(Should / Could) you lend me your pen?
If I were you, I (can / would) take the job offer.
You (must / might) not park here — it’s illegal.

Answer:

must
Can
must
Could
would
must

Modal Verbs Exercise 4: Correct the Mistakes

Each sentence has a mistake with the modal verb. Correct it.

You must to finish your homework.
→ _______________________________________
She cans speak four languages.
→ _______________________________________
We should to study for the test.
→ _______________________________________
He mights be at home.
→ _______________________________________
I musts remember to call my mom.
→ _______________________________________

Answer:

You must finish your homework.
She can speak four languages.
We should study for the test.
He might be at home.
I must remember to call my mom.

Modal Verbs Exercise 5: Rewrite the Sentences

Rewrite each sentence using a modal verb.

It’s necessary for you to finish the project today.
→ ___________________________________________________
It’s possible that she is at the library.
→ ___________________________________________________
I have the ability to swim across the river.
→ ___________________________________________________
It’s a good idea to eat more vegetables.
→ ___________________________________________________
It wasn’t possible for him to lift the heavy box.
→ ___________________________________________________
I politely request you to pass me the salt.
→ ___________________________________________________

Answer:

You must finish the project today.
She might be at the library.
I can swim across the river.
You should eat more vegetables.
He couldn’t lift the heavy box.
Could you pass me the salt, please?